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A Multimodal Wide-Field Fourier-Transform Raman Microscope
Published on: December 30, 2025
Fourier pixels for bidirectional light control
Yannik M Glauser1, Sander J W Vonk1, David B Seda1
1Optical Materials Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Nature
|June 24, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed novel multifunctional pixels capable of both sensing and generating optical wavefronts with full control over amplitude, phase, and polarization. This breakthrough enables bidirectional control of light fields, advancing optical technologies.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Nanotechnology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Conventional pixels detect or emit light intensity, limiting information capture.
- Existing multifunctional components offer limited control over optical wavefronts.
- A need exists for pixels with bidirectional control over amplitude, phase, and polarization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a versatile platform for multifunctional pixels.
- To achieve full control over optical wavefronts for both sensing and generation.
- To enable advanced applications in optics and information processing.
Main Methods:
- Utilized miniaturized diffractive elements based on Fourier optics.
- Employed plasmonic surface waves propagating across metallic microstructures.
- Designed microstructures using Fourier analysis for arbitrary wavefront generation and sensing.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated pixels that can sense and generate optical wavefronts with full amplitude, phase, and polarization control.
- Achieved background-free wavefront generation and complete characterization of incoming light.
- Created multifunctional 'Fourier pixels' offering compact and accurate optical field control.
Conclusions:
- The developed platform provides a scalable, universal architecture for vectorially programmable pixels.
- This technology enables bidirectional control and feedback of sophisticated light fields.
- Potential applications include adaptive optics, holographic displays, optical communication, and quantum information processing.
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