Space-variant polarization scrambling for image encryption obtained with subwavelength gratings

We present an optical encryption method based on geometrical phase, which is originated from polarization manipulation. The decrypted picture is retrieved by measuring the polarization of the beam emerging from the encrypted element. The encrypted element is achieved by using a computer-generated space-variant subwavelength dielectric grating. Theoretical analyses of the optical concept by use of Jones and Mueller formalisms, as well as experimental results including full optical decryption process are introduced. Digital implementation and the possibility of using watermarking are also discussed. (C) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.