Computer simulation of Talbot phenomenon using the Fresnel integrals approach

Talbot phenomenon of the finiteness grating is studied both theoretically and experimentally. The simulations can be performed in any PC using a MATLAB program developed by the author. The diffractions of finiteness periodic square aperture arrays in Fresnel fields are analyzed according to the scalar diffraction theory. The additional intensity maxima in Talbot images of the finiteness gratings are theoretically predicted to appear. The square aperture arrays are produced and the self-images of the gratings are measured successfully in the experiment. A comparative analysis of theoretical results with experimental ones is illustrated.