Quantum interference by coherence transfer from spin to orbital angular momentum of photons

E. Nagali; F. Sciarrino; L. Sansoni; F. De Martini; L. Marrucci; B. Piccirillo; E. Karimi; E. Santamato

doi:10.1117/12.821083

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18 May 2009 Quantum interference by coherence transfer from spin to orbital angular momentum of photons

E. Nagali; F. Sciarrino; L. Sansoni; F. De Martini; L. Marrucci; B. Piccirillo; E. Karimi; E. Santamato

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Proceedings Volume 7355, Photon Counting Applications, Quantum Optics, and Quantum Information Transfer and Processing II; 735507 (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.821083
Event: SPIE Optics + Optoelectronics, 2009, Prague, Czech Republic

Abstract

The orbital angular momentum carried by single photons represents a promising resource in the quantum information field. In this paper we report the characterization in the quantum regime of a recently introduced optical device, known as q-plate. Exploiting the spin-orbit coupling that takes place in the q-plate, it is possible to transfer coherently the information from the polarization to the orbital angular momentum degree of freedom, and viceversa. Hence the q-plate provides a reliable bi-directional interface between polarization and orbital angular momentum. As a first paradigmatic demonstration of the q-plate properties, we have carried out the first experimental Hong-Ou-mandel effect purely observed in the orbital angular momentum degree of freedom.

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E. Nagali, F. Sciarrino, L. Sansoni, F. De Martini, L. Marrucci, B. Piccirillo, E. Karimi, and E. Santamato "Quantum interference by coherence transfer from spin to orbital angular momentum of photons", Proc. SPIE 7355, Photon Counting Applications, Quantum Optics, and Quantum Information Transfer and Processing II, 735507 (18 May 2009); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.821083

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