Phase Topology Stability of an Optical Vortex via an Electrically Controlled Twist-Planar Oriented Liquid Crystal Fresnel Lens

Abstract

The stability of optical vortices (OVs) remains a key barrier to their integration in scalable photonic systems, despite their transformative potential in optical communication, sensing, and information processing. Here, a novel voltage-tunable Fresnel lens based on a twist-planar liquid crystal (LC) configuration is presented, enabling dynamic control and real-time analysis of OV phase topology. This material platform exploits the intrinsic birefringence and electro-optic responsiveness of LCs to achieve dual-function operation: detection of topological charge and propagation of singular beams, modulated via low-voltage actuation (0–35 V). The adaptive optical phase control is realized without altering the external optical setup, simplifying device architecture and reducing system complexity. Experimental and theoretical analyses reveal a clear correlation between voltage-induced LC orientation and the vortex intensity profile in the Fourier plane. Owing to its low power consumption, compact footprint, and integration compatibility, this reconfigurable LC-based lens represents a functional materials breakthrough for robust and tunable vortex-enabled technologies.