Implementation of an optical microscope based on SPIFI technique

Abstract

This postdoctoral work consists in the construction of an optical microscope based on the SPIFI technique (SpatIal Frequency-modulated Imaging), and its adaptation and application to frontiers studies. The technique that makes use of a spatial frequency modulation for imaging, known as SPIFI, is modern and it is not yet available in Brazilian laboratories. It is a microscopy method, which offers the possibility of imaging samples in a relatively fast and simple way, using a single element detector, and it is suitable for scattering media and permits to obtain superresolution images (sub-diffraction limit). SPIFI allows obtaining images by different linear and nonlinear optical processes such as linear absorption, fluorescence induced via absorption of one or more photons and harmonics generation. In this way, given the potential of the technique, we propose to perform a study with it in this research proposal. The postdoctoral project presented here can be divided into four stages. The first and foremost consists in the building of an optical microscope based on the SPIFI technique. The second is the quantitative evaluation of the real benefits of the technique for imaging scattering media and obtaining superresolution images. Subsequently, in the third stage, the system will be adapted to an unprecedented configuration, where the spatial frequency modulation will be performed by controlling the polarization state of the pump beam. Finally, the experimental system implemented will be used for characterization of nonlinear waveguides produced in glassy materials, which will enable a mapping of the effective induced nonlinearity in such devices. Therefore, we believe that the implementation and application of this optical microscope will bring us benefits of the technological domain's point of view, new study field, as well as interaction with other research groups. (AU)