Computer-generated space-variant polarization elements with subwavelength metal stripes

A novel method of performing two-dimensional space-variant polarization operations is presented. The method is based on determining the local direction and period of subwavelength metal-stripe gratings by use of vectorial optics to obtain any desired continuous polarization change. We demonstrate our approach with specific computer-generated space-variant polarization elements for laser radiation at $10.6 \mu \mathrm{m}$. The polarization properties are verified with complete space-variant polarization analysis and measurement.