Volume holographic storage and animation based on addressing with an elastomer phase mask

A novel technique for phase-multiplexed holographic storage is reported. Phase codes for recording individual images are generated with an elastomer mask fabricated from silicone. The mask is imprinted with a random phase distribution by using a mold with a nonuniform surface profile. By displacing the elastomer from equilibrium, the optical path length traversed by each point on the reference beam wavefront can be altered, creating a unique phase address for a particular amount of strain. Images are stored in a photorefractive crystal at 0.21 mm (0.22% strain) intervals. Phase selectivity of different masks is variable, with a minimum strain sensitivity for sufficient phase mismatch at 0.06%. Prestrain of the elastomer at 7.1% leads to lower phase selectivity at small strain intervals. Holographic animation at 8-25 frames per second is demonstrated for two sequences at recording intervals of 0.105 and 0.21 mm displacements.