Bragg diffraction gratings formed in bulk fused silica by femtosecond Bessel beams

A femtosecond direct-write method using Bessel beams is investigated as a means for in-bulk diffractive element formation, the performance of the formed diffractive elements is analyzed with insights into possible mechanisms of fused silica modification using Bessel beams. Results are compared to direct-write using Gaussian beams for elements of similar geometry.