Paraxial evolution dynamics of radially polarized Airy Gaussian vortex beam array in uniaxial crystals

We conduct both analytical and numerical investigations into the evolution properties of radially polarized Airy Gaussian vortex beam arrays (RPAiGVBAs) in uniaxial crystals oriented orthogonally to the optical axis, within the framework of the paraxial approximation. The x component and y component of the RPAiGVBA intensity distribution on several cross sections and side views are thoroughly analyzed in this letter, respectively. Our findings reveal that the evolution patterns of the x and y components differ significantly. While propagating through various uniaxial crystals, the ratio of the extraordinary refractive index to the ordinary refractive index (parameter f) plays a crucial role in modulating the x component of the RPAiGVBA intensity distribution and its propagation trajectory. In contrast, the y component’s behavior depends solely on the ordinary refractive index no. Consequently, choosing the appropriate parameter of uniaxial crystals, no or f, allows for fine-tuning of the RPAiGVBA evolution trajectory to meet specific application requirements, particularly in optical tweezers and particle trapping. In addition, the applicability of the paraxial approximation is discussed to confirm that our beam array theory is valid when the beam waist radii are significantly larger than the wavelength of the RPAiGVBA.