Holographic optical tweezers obtained by using the three-dimensional Gerchberg–Saxton algorithm

Abstract

An extension of the Gerchberg–Saxton algorithm from two dimensions to three is used to configure a continuous optical trap geometry. Intensity tailoring in a continuous, three-dimensional (3D) volume rather than in multiple discrete two-dimensional planes yields flexible 3D holographic optical tweezers. A numerical simulation and optical demonstrations of continuous 3D beam shaping and particle trapping confirm the capabilities of the method.