LATE TRANSITION METAL ORGANOMETALLICS AS NONLINEAR OPTICAL MATERIALS

Abstract

Families of organo-gold and -iridium complexes will be synthesized and evaluated for excited-state light absorption. In new directions, the Gray research laboratory seeks broadband nonlinear optical chromophores that act across the visible and near-infrared spectrum. We also propose chromophores that enhance cross-molecule charge transfer, thereby augmenting two-photon absorption and reverse saturable absorption. Our primary emphasis will be excited-state characterization through static and ultrafast spectroscopy. Throughout, we seek structure-function relationships that enable the rational design of third-order nonlinear optical materials. This research will be executed collaboratively between CWRU and the professionals at the Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory; and the United States Air Force Academy. The three-year goal of this research is to create nonlinear optical materials that function across ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared wavelengths. The objective is to characterize the excited states of molecular organometallics with a focus on excited-state absorption. The central hypothesis is that the spin-orbit coupling of heavy metal atoms populates long-lived triplet states that themselves absorb light. The rationale is that the 5d transition metals are versatile heavy atoms that support nonlinear light absorption across multiple oxidation states.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Apr 20, 2023
Source ID
FA95502210436

Entities

People

  • Thomas G Gray

Organizations

  • Air Force Office of Scientific Research
  • Case Western Reserve University
  • United States Air Force

Tags

Readers

  • Chemistry (specifically Chemical Fluorescence)
  • Optical Physics and Photonics.
  • Research Science/Academic Research

Technology Areas

  • Space