Light-self-induced geometric phase structures in liquid crystals

Abstract The geometric phase, originating from cyclic and adiabatic evolutions in parameter space, is central to both quantum and classical systems. In optics, it enables polarization-based control of light and has been widely exploited in birefringent elements. Here we show that, through its interaction with optical valves, light can self-induce a localized geometric phase structure. Molecular reorientation forced by light intensity imprints a confined geometric phase with zero orbital angular momentum on the transmitted beam, revealed through interference. An amplitude equation derived from first principles captures the observed phase fields, with analytical, numerical, and experimental results in close agreement. This establishes a universal framework for light-driven geometric-phase localization, bridging fundamental optics with reconfigurable photonic applications.