High-precision and low-noise dielectric tensor tomography using a micro-electromechanical system mirror

Abstract

Dielectric tensor tomography is an imaging technique for mapping three-dimensional distributions of dielectric properties in transparent materials. This work introduces an enhanced illumination strategy employing a micro -electromechanical system mirror to achieve high precision and reduced noise in imaging. This illumination approach allows for precise manipulation of light, significantly improving the accuracy of angle control and minimizing diffraction noise compared to traditional beam steering approaches. Our experiments have successfully reconstructed the dielectric properties of liquid crystal droplets, which are known for their anisotropic structures, while demonstrating a notable reduction in the background noise of the images. Additionally, the technique has been applied to more complex samples, revealing its capability to achieve a high signal-to-noise ratio. This development represents a significant step forward in the field of birefringence imaging, offering a powerful tool for detailed study of materials with anisotropic properties. (c) 2024 Optica Publishing Group under the terms of the Optica Open Access Publishing Agreement