Overview and applications of diffractive optics technology (Q2758020)

This paper represents the introductory chapter of a monograph devoted to recent developments in the mathematical modeling in optical sciences. From an engineering standpoint the author provides an overview of the current state in diffractive optics technology. He describes three applications in the areas of subwavelength structures, optical imaging, and diffractive optical elements. These examples illustrate the need of new rigorous modeling tools in optical science derived directly from Maxwell's equations. The author identifies several problem areas and possible future directions in micro-optics that possess great potential for significant research development in applied mathematics.NEWLINENEWLINEFor the entire collection see [Zbl 0964.00050].