High-frequency relief-phase holographic gratings on gelatin-containing photosensitive media

Abstract

Subject of study. Registration processes of highly effective relief-phase holographic structures on gelatin-containing photosensitive media at high spatial frequencies are studied. Aim of study. The goal is to develop advanced technologies for processing recording media based on the destructive effect of short-wave ultraviolet radiation on gelatin. Method. A significantly shortened time procedure for etching gelatin irradiated with ultraviolet radiation to suppress the influence of surface tension forces smoothing the surface relief of the structure at high spatial frequencies is included while processing photosensitive layers. Water and glacial acetic acid solutions in isopropyl alcohol were used as etchants. Main results. The samples of relief-phase holographic gratings demonstrate high diffraction efficiency in the range of spatial frequencies of 1200−1600mm−1 up to 67% for dichromated gelatin (PFG-04 photographic plates, OJSC Slavich Company) and 42% for silver halide emulsion (PFG-01 photographic plates, OJSC Slavich Company) and have low angular selectivity. High diffraction efficiency values were obtained in the wide range of thicknesses (0.7–26 µm) of the recording media used. Practical significance. The proposed improved methods of processing gelatin-containing photosensitive layers contribute to increasing the range of recorded spatial frequencies during the formation of relief-phase holographic structures, thereby expanding the scope of application of silver halide photoemulsions and dichromated gelatin in holography.