Abstract

Recently we reported the incorporation of a novel difunctional nonlinear optical (NLO) molecule, 3-amino-5-[4′-(N-ethyl-N-2″-hydroxyethyl)aminobenzylidene]-rhodanine (I), into a poled, cross-linked polymer by the stepwise reaction of different functionalities with a trifunctional comonomer.¹ The difference in reactivity between the two functional groups on the molecule allows a stepwise reaction; first, oligomers are formed which are processed into optical quality films, and second, reaction conditions are changed while applying the electric field to induce reaction of the second functionality and cross-link the oriented NLO- phores. Here we discuss the curing, poling, and stability of this material.

© 1993 Optical Society of America