Tellurium Metasurface Beam Splitter with Pulse Laser-Controlled Anisotropy

Abstract

Laser-programmable optical anisotropy offers a new route to developing reconfigurable metasurfaces without conventional nanofabrication processes. Here, we demonstrate a lithography-free approach based on spatial control of the crystallographic $c$ axis orientation in tellurium (Te) using pulse laser irradiation. As a proof of concept, we demonstrate a Te metasurface beam splitter by laser-written optical-axis patterning and experimentally confirm that its optical response is in good agreement with theoretical predictions and numerical simulations. By directly programming the local optical anisotropy, this method enables a simple fabrication process while offering the possibility of rewriting and dynamically reconfiguring device functionality. These features make this approach a promising platform for non-resonant active metasurfaces and other reconfigurable flat-optics applications.