Real-Time 3D Imaging via Electrical-Response Polarization State Reconstruction.

Li, Junyu; Gu, Yu; Zhang, Songwei; Sun, Shaoling; Zhao, Xianyu; Song, Weichen; Wang, Chen; Lu, Xingyu et al. · Nano Lett · 2026

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

3D imaging provides rich spatial information that is critical for enhancing target recognition and camouflage discrimination. Herein, we present a novel real-time 3D imaging method enabled by electrical-response polarization state reconstruction for surface normal vectors. For this purpose, we design a four-direction (0°, 45°, 90°, and 135°) polarization photodetector array that enables real-time polarization state identification, including the degree of polarization and polarization angle. The sensing unit exhibits an intrinsic polarization contrast of 0.36, achieved through nanoimprinting-induced anisotropy, with a nucleation-delayed strategy that enhances pattern uniformity and boosts the polarization selectivity of the MAPbI3 sensing film. By establishing the mathematical relationship between the polarization state of partially polarized light and the polarization electrical response of the sensing array, we extract the zenith and azimuth angles for normal vectors with a deviation of <5.4°. This enables real-time reconstruction of 3D surface topography and offers a compact and scalable route toward polarization-based 3D imaging.