Synthesis and characterization of thermally robust electro-optic polymers

Abstract

Recently, substantial progress has been made in molecular design of nonlinear optical chromophores toward the goal of large nonlinearities while retaining thermal stability. Modifications of donor groups, delocalized (pi)-systems, and acceptor groups have all been made, and examples of each are described. The utility of each modification for preparation of electro-optic polymers is discussed. Resistance to thermal decomposition is not sufficient for practical applications; NLO polymers must also be resistant to thermal depoling and to sublimation of chromophores out of the polymers. It is therefore concluded that chemical tethering is required. Synthetic strategies for tethering our better chromophores to thermally stable polyimides are described, and the results of materials prepared to date are given.