Vector Vortex Beams: Theory, Generation, and Detection of Laguerre–Gaussian and Bessel–Gaussian Types

A vector vortex beam (VVB) combines the phase singularity of a vortex beam (VB) with the anisotropic polarization of a vector beam, enabling the transmission of complex optical information and offering broad application prospects in optical sensing, high-capacity communication, and high-resolution imaging. In this work, we present a detailed theoretical analysis of the generation and detection of VVBs with Laguerre–Gaussian (LG) and Bessel–Gaussian (BG) forms. Particular emphasis is placed on the polarization characteristics of VVBs, the evolution of beam profiles after passing through polarizers with different orientations, and the interference features arising from the coaxial superposition of a VVB with a circularly polarized divergent spherical wave. To validate the theoretical analysis, LGVVBs were experimentally generated using a Mach–Zehnder interferometer by superposing two vortex beams with opposite topological charges and orthogonal circular polarizations. Furthermore, the introduction of an axicon enabled the direct conversion of LGVVBs into BGVVBs. The excellent agreement between theoretical predictions and experimental observations lays a solid foundation for beginners to systematically understand VVB characteristics and advance future research.