Abstract

A new class of nonlinear optical side chain polymers based on modified polyimide backbones¹ has been developed for the use as electro-optic modulator devices. The nonlinear optical polymers with functionalised azo-dye chromophores show high glass transition temperatures in the range of 137°C to 172°C, resulting in excellent long-term stability of the electro-optic effect.² Coefficients of r₃₃ = 20 pm/V have been measured at 1313 nm and first prototype electro-optic modulators could be demonstrated.

© 1994 IEEE