RESUMEN
The wavelength dependence of the one-photon absorption-induced photodegradation rate has been measured from the visible to the near IR for a variety of electro-optic chromophore-doped polymers. Systematic behavior is identified. The lifetime of the electro-optic activity is found to increase exponentially over 4-6 orders of magnitude for wavelengths ranging from peak of absorption, typically in the visible, to ~1000 nm. Many popular chromophores developed for electro-optics over the past 10 years are compared.
RESUMEN
The photodegradation of the azobenzene chromophore DR1 {4-[N-ethyl-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-4(?)-nitroazobenzene]} incorporated as a side chain or as a guest in a poly(methyl) methacrylate host has been evaluated as a function of wavelength, temperature, and the atmospheric environment. The effects of these variables on the lifetime of DR1-based electro-optic devices is quantified.
RESUMEN
The basic Mach-Zehnder interferometer was modified for use in in situ temperature-dependent linear electro-optic (LEO) measurements of thin films of 4-dimethylamino-4?-nitrostilbene (DANS) doped into poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). Optimum interferometer phase stability was possible because of an incorporated electronic feedback system. Film thickness variation was compensated for to obtain more accurate LEO coefficient measurements and thus the second-order susceptibility. Moreover, both the alpha relaxation associated with the glass transition, T(g), and beta relaxation associated with the secondary transition occurring below T(g) of PMMA + 2 wt.% DANS was obtained.