Topological solitons relevant in different areas of physics are fascinating topologically protected localized perturbations of ordering fields. We combine experimental and theoretical approaches to demonstrate refraction, reflection, and lensing of weak laser beams by topological solitons appearing in frustrated cholesterics. One-dimensional twist walls and two-dimensional torons are controllably generated in thin films of unwounded cholesterics. We show how their interactions with light are well described using a generalization of Snell’s law and ray-tracing models. We conclude with the perspective that including high-intensity light (optical solitons) opens also optomechanical applications. All these findings will enhance the interest in optics and photonics of frustrated cholesterics.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.