Optical properties of multilayer films prepared by electrostatic layer-by-layer post azo functionalization

Abstract

The effects of charge density in the polymer chains on thickness and chromophore ordering were studied in the electrostatic layer-by-layer (ELBL) self-assembly (SA) films against pH values. The synthesis, characterization, multilayer fabrication and optical properties such as second harmonic generation and surface relief grating formation were also studied. Azobenzene was directly incorporated into a polymer via convenient post azo coupling on multilayer films in conjunction with the ELBL SA process. This combined deposition and post azo functionalization provided a rapid and easy method of incorporating well ordered azo chromophores in the polyion surface in multilayer film structures by chemical azo bond formation.