Abstract

Dual-functional diffraction gratings, which show different diffractions in transmission and reflection, are proposed as an essential optical element. We utilize a flattening effect of photochromic diarylethene (DAE) in the low glass transition temperature state and selective metal deposition to prepare the gratings. The uncolored lines of the colored DAE layer on a grating substrate with grooves were formed by red-laser scanning, and Mg evaporation onto the substrate without a shadow mask enabled Mg-line formation at right angles to the grooves. After being stored at $27°\mathrm{C}$ for $500\min$, the sample showed two-dimensional diffraction in reflection but one-dimensional diffraction in transmission, meaning that a dual-functional grating was achieved. This result shows great potential as a key element for various future optical devices and systems.

© 2011 Optical Society of America

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