Study on third-order nonlinear optical properties of 4-methylsulfanyl chalcone derivatives using picosecond pulses

In this paper we present results from the experimental study of third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of three molecules of Br and NO2 substituted chalcone derivatives namely (2E)-1-(4-bromophenyl)-3-[4(methylsulfanyl)phenyl]prop-2-en-1-one (4Br4MSP), (2E)-1-(3-bromophenyl)-3-[4-(methylsulfanyl) phenyl]prop-2-en-1-one (3Br4MSP) and (2E)-3[4(methylsulfanyl) phenyl]-1-(4-nitrophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (4N4MSP). The NLO properties have been investigated by Z-scan technique using 2 ps laser pulses at 800 nm. The nonlinear refractive indices, nonlinear absorption coefficient, and the magnitude of third-order susceptibility have been determined. The values obtained are of the order of 10−7 cm2/GW, 10−3 cm/GW and 10−14 esu respectively. The molecular second hyperpolarizability for the chalcone derivatives is of the order of 10−32 esu. The coupling factor, excited state cross section, ground state cross section etc. were determined. The optical limiting (OL) property was studied. The results suggest that the nonlinear properties investigated for present chalcones are comparable with some of the reported chalcone derivatives and can be desirable for NLO applications.

Photograph and schematic representation of Z-scan experimental setup used to investigate third order nonlinear properties of the chalcone materials.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Br and NO2 substituted chalcone derivatives were exposed to picosecond laser pulses.
► Third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties were investigated.
► Compounds show promising third-order and optical limiting properties.
► These materials found suitable for electrical and optical applications.