Abstract

Interest in holograms as diffractive optical elements began with the early recognition of the correspondence of transmission holograms and Fresnel zone plates.^1,2 Optical designs based on holographically-generated optical elements (HOEs) and the extension of computer-based design programs to holographic gratings appeared in the late 1960s.^3,4,5 Use of HOEs in systems was limited, however, in part due to complicated processing and lack of environmental stability in available materials. Recent developments in polymeric materials for holography invite reconsideration of HOEs for emerging applications where unique function, weight, light efficiency and cost are premium considerations. OmniDex® Holographic recording films (HRFs) developed at DuPont provide benefits for the manufacturers of HOEs and optical systems that include excellent optical performance, dry processing, environmental stability, and mass reproduction. This paper reviews the holographic properties of these films and gives examples of simple HOE components.

© 1996 Optical Society of America