ORCID

0009-0005-0755-2363

Keywords

Optics, Statistical Optics, Light scattering, Multiple light scattering, Dynamic light scattering, Statistics

Subject Categories

Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics | Optics | Physics | Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics

Abstract

Physical reality is rarely deterministic; which, when probed by electromagnetic fields that also fluctuate, leads to observables that are most efficiently modelled as statistical processes. At equilibrium, this is usually achieved by invoking the Gaussian statistics of underlying physical processes, however, in practice, one often encounters out-of-equilibrium conditions where Gaussian descriptions may not suffice. Such situations are plentiful in nature– from biology to astronomy. This dissertation addresses several non-Gaussian phenomena associated with light scattering, and includes specific models’ derivations, experimental techniques developments, and demonstrations of potential applications. The systematic presentation will consider circumstances that infringe upon specific assumptions of the central limit theorem.

First, we discuss the properties of observables resulting from few scattering events. By studying the scattering of space-polarization structured illumination from sparse particulate dispersions, we demonstrate a non-invasive technique to retrieve the particle aspect ratio.

Next, we consider the effect of correlated events. We study the interaction of light with disordered, strongly scattering three-dimensional materials where the structural correlations can be controlled at will. Remarkably, a regime of sub-diffusive light transport emerges in these materials, which, coupled with an enhancement of inelastic scattering, suggests a range of sensing applications.

We also consider the situation when light scattering from disordered media leads to statistically non-stationary observables. Characteristics of the temporal evolution of spatial correlations in the temporal impulse response provide a novel metric for describing interfacial and bulk scattering, which is a critical aim for many characterization techniques in biology and complex materials.

Finally, we examine situations where light modifies statistical properties of dynamic matter. We show how a spatio-temporally random field can drive passive colloidal media out-of-equilibrium in three dimensions. The full description of the dynamic interaction requires going beyond traditional white noise models and confirms the restructuring of colloidal spatial and temporal properties observed experimentally.

Completion Date

2026

Semester

Summer

Committee Chair

Dr. Aristide Dogariu

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Optics and Photonics

Department

Optics and Photonics PhD

Format

PDF

Document Type

Dissertation

Language

English

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