Definition of axicon

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Photonics Dictionary

axicon: An axicon is a type of optical component characterized by its conical shape and its ability to transform a collimated Gaussian beam of light into a ring-shaped beam with a gradually increasing diameter. The term "axicon" is derived from the words "axis" and "cone."

The axicon's design typically consists of a glass or other transparent material with a conical surface that may be either convex or concave. When a collimated beam of light passes through an axicon, the resulting output beam forms a series of concentric rings known as an "axicon ring" or "Bessel beam." The diameter of these rings increases linearly along the propagation axis, creating a characteristic doughnut or bullseye pattern.

Axicons find applications in various fields of optics and photonics, including laser processing, microscopy, optical trapping, and interferometry. Some common uses of axicons include:

Laser material processing: Axicons are employed in laser material processing techniques such as laser drilling, cutting, and micromachining, where the ring-shaped beam profile facilitates efficient material removal and precise machining.

Microscopy: In microscopy, axicons are utilized to create structured illumination patterns for optical sectioning and super-resolution imaging techniques. They can also generate Bessel beams for extended-depth-of-focus microscopy.

Optical trapping: Axicons are used in optical trapping setups to create three-dimensional traps for manipulating and studying micron-scale particles, cells, and biological specimens.

Interferometry: Axicons are employed in interferometric setups to produce fringes with controllable spacing and intensity distribution, enabling precise measurements of optical surfaces, wavefronts, and distances.

Overall, axicons offer versatility and flexibility in shaping and manipulating laser beams, making them valuable tools in a wide range of scientific and industrial applications.

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