New photonic and electronic polymers

This paper gives an overview of recent work on new organic π-electron-conjugated materials prepared and tested in our laboratories. Second-order nonlinear optical polymers for electro-optic modulation were investigated, both guest–host and side-chain chromophoric materials. Chromophores and polymers were synthesized, thin films were prepared, and the following properties were measured: electro-optic coefficient, optical absorption loss and thermal stability. It was concluded that optical modulators fabricated from these materials could be viable components in optical communication systems. Work on novel polyphenylenevinylenes is summarized. Besides their low electrical resistivity, photoluminescent, and electro-active properties, these materials have interesting photoconductive properties that may prove useful in optical control of photonic logic devices.