Orbital angular momentum manipulation through optical pattern dynamics
Phys. Rev. B 113, 014309 – Published 14 January, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/6bg9-6njj
Abstract
In this work, we introduce a method that enables precise control of the orbital angular momentum (OAM) of Bessel vortex beams by harnessing the dynamics of optical patterns generated within a photorefractive (PR) feedback system. By systematically adjusting key parameters—such as the coupling strength between the beams, the tilt angle of the feedback mirror, and the topological charge (both integer and fractional) of the incident beams—we demonstrate how the evolution and motion of the resulting optical patterns can be exploited to modulate and control the OAM. Through our fluid-dynamic analogical framework, we reveal the rotational dynamics of the patterns as a tangible manifestation of the intrinsic vortex nature of high-order Bessel beams. We further conducted a detailed investigation into the evolution of OAM, including fractional OAM states, and demonstrated that the dynamic behavior of the patterns not only reflects but also enhances the OAM. These insights pave the way for new possibilities in advanced optical manipulation and communication systems.
