In 1992 Allen et al. recognized that light beams could carry an angular momentum in addition to that arising from the photon spin. This orbital angular momentum can be created using lenses or diffractive optics, the later often formed using liquid crystal displays. Both whole beams and single photons can carry this twist, and transfer it to particles causing them to spin. This paper introduces the underlying principles of orbital angular momentum and reviews a number of its manifestations and applications. These effects highlight how optics still contains surprises and opportunities for manipulation, imaging and communication in both the classical and quantum worlds.

Date Published: 5 March 2013
PDF: 10 pages
Proc. SPIE 8637, Complex Light and Optical Forces VII, 863702 (5 March 2013); doi: 10.1117/12.2013768

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 8637:
Complex Light and Optical Forces VII
Jesper Glückstad; David L. Andrews; Enrique J. Galvez, Editor(s)