Propagation of light fields with radial or azimuthal polarization distribution at a transverse plane

In terms of the angular spectrum representation, general expressions are given to describe the free-space propagation of electromagnetic fields with radial or azimuthal polarization structure at a transverse plane. The transverse distributions of the radial, azimuthal and longitudinal components of these fields are also analysed. In particular, the on-axis behavior upon free propagation is studied. Furthermore, the special but important case of those fields that retain their polarization character (radial or azimuthal) under propagation is also considered. The analytical results are illustrated by application to some examples. (c) 2008 Optical Society of America.