Optical twin-vortex multi-trapping by Kolakoski lenses

Abstract

Abstract In this work, we design and implement a new bifocal diffractive spiral lens within an optical tweezers system. The proposed diffractive optical element coined Kolokaski Kinoform Spiral Lens (KKSL), generates twin optical vortices along the propagation direction. The axial positions, as well as the diameters of the generated vortex beams, are correlated with the Kolakoski aperiodic sequence introduced in the design of the diffractive lens. The unique properties of KKSLs make it ideal for optical trapping applications, allowing independent multiple trapping and particle displacement within each optical vortex beam. We present both the focusing properties of KKSL and the experimental results of its integration into the optical tweezer setup.