Multilayer volume holographic gratings from BayFol HX: light and neutron optical characteristics

Abstract

During the last decade a number of volume holographic media have been investigated that could serve not only as diffractive optical elements (DOEs) for light but also for slow neutrons. In this contribution we discuss the light optical properties of a stack of two gratings separated by an optically inert slice recorded in a Bayfol®HX photopolymer. While the refractive-index modulation of the gratings for light is remarkable, the corresponding neutron optical analogue is, so far, in the medium range of other materials investigated. We therefore aim at possible improvements which are discussed in this manuscript.