Investigation of a LCoS-SLM and Progressively More Difficult Applications of the SLM Including Optical Trapping*

At the heart of all phase modulation applications is a Spatial Light Modulator (SLM). A Liquid Crystal on Silicon Spatial Light Modulator (LCoS-SLM) uses a voltage to phase retardation relationship that allows for easily programmable phase shifts. The programmable phase shifts are often programmed using phase masks. The LCoS-SLM is investigated and various applications of the SLM, including using the SLM as a “Projector”, to generate Bessel Beams, to generate a Vortex Beam with Orbital Angular Momentum, and flat-top beams of various shapes are performed. All applications are performed using a similar optical set-up with various phase masks. Finally, a vortex beam is used to optically trap micron sized nanoparticles.