A New Approach to Design of Cross-Linked Second-Order Nonlinear Optical Polymers
Abstract
An integrated program for the development of novel macromolecular materials for nonlinear optics has been established at the University of Lowell. Various aspects of molecular engineering and optics, viz., molecular design, synthesis, processing, characterization of linear and nonlinear optical properties, fabrication into desired forms and investigation of nonlinear phenomena, are emphasized. For example, based on p-extended donor-acceptor configuration a number of electroactive molecules which possess large molecular hyperpolarizabilities have been developed. These molecules have been incorporated into macromolecules as side groups or as components of the main chain. A set of macromolecules based on an epoxy structure have been designed that permits orientation lof the second order nonlinear optical elements and their subsequent vitrification by crosslinking. For second order application it is imperative that the system be noncentro-symmetric. This is brought about by electric field induced poling of the prepolymers based on an epoxy system. The active elements are azo dyes that are appropriately substituted with donor-acceptor groups.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA226674
Entities
People
- Braja K. Mandal
- Jayant Kumer
- Sukant Tripathy