Abstract

We have prepared a new type of nanocomposite hybrid organo-mineral material that is composed of organic nanocrystals embedded in sol-gel glasses [1]. Organic molecules display a large variety of optical properties (e.g. nonlinearities, fluorescence, photorefractive, photochromism, or photomagnetism). Our technique makes it possible to include these molecules in a solid inorganic media which affords easy elaboration, cutting and polishing, mechanical stability and low cost. High concentrations in active molecules (>30wt%) can be reached due to the nanoscale control of crystal sizes (as small as 20nm) in the sol-gel pores. This process results in transparent optical grade samples in bulk and thin films which are particularly attractive for applications.

© 2000 IEEE