Complex transmittance gratings based on subwavelength metallic structures

Subwavelength metallic structures are used to design gratings with a great variety of transmittance levels. Such gratings can answer growing needs for complex transmittance devices, particularly useful for wave-front analysis applications. Having in mind the conception of a perfectly sinusoidal transmittance for the mid-infrared, we have decided to test the ability of subwavelength lamellar gratings to code the transmittance with several levels. In order to calibrate gratings transmission, as a function of the fill factor, we have designed, realized and measured samples made of six 2mm x 2mm gratings, with transmittance ranging from 10% to 95%. Experimental results for TM- and TE-polarized light are reported and analysed.