Azo-azulene based compounds-nonlinear optical and photorefractive properties

This work reports on nonlinear optical properties of some azo-functionalized azulene derivatives. Linear and nonlinear optical absorption, second- and third harmonic generation were used as diagnostic tools. It was demonstrated that light induced a surface pattern on thin films containing the studied compounds. The results indicate an important role of thiazole substitution for enhancing NLO properties of the azulene derivatives.

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► Azo-aulene derivative composites with PMMA.
► Optical linear and nonlinear properties were studied.
► Surface relief grating were recorded on azo-azulene containing thin films.
► Prolonged illumination influenced the form of the recorded pattern.
► Initially visible parallel grooves were converted in a honeycomb-like structure.