Holographic grating formation in SiO2 nanoparticle-dispersed PQ-PMMA photopolymer

The holographic recording and grating formation dynamics in SiO2 nanoparticle-dispersed PQ-PMMA photopolymer are investigated theoretically and experimentally. It has demonstrated a possibility to improve the refractive index modulation by doping inorganic nanoparticles into the polymer matrix. During exposure the nonlinear dependence γ of polymerization rate on the incident intensity is elevated and therefore faster grating formation rate is obtained in SiO2 nanoparticle-dispersed photopolymer. Mutual diffusion dynamics as dark diffusional enhancement mechanism after exposure is analyzed and simulated by mutual diffusion model. The maximum of mutual diffusion coefficient with the order of magnitude 10−16 m2/s is extracted. This study can provide a significant foundation for improving the properties of the polymer using inorganic nanoparticles as dopants.

► SiO2 nanoparticle-dispersed PQ-PMMA photopolymers are fabricated by optimizing preparation.
► SiO2 nanoparticles bring fast grating formation rate under illumination.
► Mutual diffusion between PQ and SiO2 nanoparticles is primary photochemical processes after exposure.
► Spatial-temporal distribution of components is simulated.
► Maximum of mutual diffusion coefficient is 10−16 m2/s.