Polarization-independent reciprocal lens based on non-Hermitian complex degenerate bands
Abstract
Reciprocal lenses (RLs) overcome key limitations of conventional imaging mechanisms, which require precise optical-axis alignment and produce only inverted real images. This advancement highlights the potential of nonlocal metasurfaces for imaging applications. However, existing RLs operate only under specific polarization conditions, hindering their practical utility. In this work, we propose an RL based on a Stampfli-triangle photonic crystal slab (S-T PCS). By achieving isotropy and degeneracy of the non-Hermitian complex bands (N-H CB) of guided resonances (GR) within the operational in-plane wavevector domain, we effectively eliminate polarization dependence in the transmitted beam. The proposed lens operates for arbitrary polarization states and directly produces upright real images of complex objects. This design provides a new platform for beam shifting effects and wavevector domain optical signal manipulation, paving the way toward further miniaturization and integration of optical imaging systems that incorporate nonlocal flat devices.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Quantum Mechanics and Non-Hermitian Physics
Orbital Angular Momentum in Optics
Metamaterials and Metasurfaces Applications
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Optics Letters
- Publisher
- Optica Publishing Group
- Volume
- 51
- Issue
- 6
- Pages
- 1630–1630
- Publication date
- 23 February 2026
- Language
- EN