Real-time single-shot three-dimensional and contrast-enhanced optical coherence imaging using phase coherent photorefractive quantum wells

Abstract

We demonstrate two real-time optical coherence imaging acquisition modes using all-optical phase coherent photorefractive ZnSe quantum wells as dynamic holographic films. These films use the coherence of excitons for time-gating which provides depth information of an object according to the brightness profile of its holographic image. This quality allows depth-resolved imaging of moving particles with a resolution of a few micrometers in a single-shot three-dimensional mode. In a complementary contrast-enhanced mode moving particles are imaged by the local enhancement of a static reference hologram, enabling optical coherence imaging at a large depth-of-field.

Electron transfer and capture dynamics in ZnSe quantum wells grown on GaAs

“…After cooling with phonons the substrate electrons are captured in the ZnSe QW. Due to the repulsive interaction with the periodically modulated exciton density a long living electron grating is formed in the QW leading to high diffraction efficiencies which can be used for optical data storage or real-time holographic imaging [3,4]. In order to optimize this effect a detailed understanding of the transfer and relaxation dynamics of the optically excited electrons in such structures is very important.…”