Novel E-O Polymers: NLO Materials with Superior Temporal Stability

Electro-optic polymers are of major interest in areas of high frequency modulation (100 GHz) for fiber optic communication systems, laser beam scanners, and frequency doubling of lasers for high density optical data storage. For these applications, electro-optic polymers present major advantages over currently used inorganic materials including orders of magnitude higher bandwidth, higher electro-optic efficiency and ease of processing. However present electro-optic polymers are temporarily unstable, have high optical absorption, require high temperature processing and can not be oriented (poled) efficiently. In addressing these problems, Foster-Miller, Inc. proposes to synthesis two classes of new electro-optic polymers that can be processed and poled efficiently at (or below) room temperature and will retain orientation over many years. The key component of these materials are highly stable (Tg ~ 250oC to 350oC), transparent and soluble polymers recently synthesized. In Phase I, we will synthesis and evaluate the stability of our guest-host electro-optic polymers. Phase II, will further improve the temporal stability by attaching chromophores to the backbone of the proposed matrices. In collaboration with Ramar Inc., we will fabricate integrated electro-optic modulators and strategize for Phase III commercialization.