Wave Beams with a Fractal Structure, Their Properties and Applications: A Literature Review
P. V. Korolenko
Abstract
Concepts of formation and propagation of radiation with a fractal amplitude–phase profile are analyzed and systematized on a single methodological basis using main points of fractal physics. Motion of a plane wave through fractal phase and amplitude screens is considered. Characteristics of beams with a stochastic and a regular self-similar structure are discussed. A range of questions on direct formation of waves with a fractal amplitude and phase distribution in laser systems is examined. The analysis shows that scaling characteristics complement the space–time parameters traditionally used for describing light beams. In particular, mutually complementing are statistical and fractal data on propagation of beams in the turbulent atmosphere. To date, the mathematical and physical apparatus has been developed that allows self-similar and scaling properties of radiation to be adequately described. With this apparatus, it is possible to develop efficient methods for optical diagnostics of fractal structures using probing light beams. A high degree of stability of Fourier images of fractals is an important factor for increasing stability and noise immunity of optical information transmission channels based on fractal beams.