Photoinduced birefringence of azobenzene polymer at blue excitation wavelengths

• DOI: 10.1007/s00340-015-6046-8
• Publication Date: 2015-02-25T06:53:19Z
• Authors: Anna Kozanecka-Sz...; Krzysztof Switkowski; Ewa Schab-Balcerzak; Dariusz Szmigiel
• Keywords: Azobenzene; Absorption band; Excitation wavelength

The photoinduced birefringence resulting from trans–cis–trans isomerizations has been measured in a thin film of azobenzene-functionalized poly(esterimide) at three excitation wavelengths. wavelengths 388 and 420 nm have located exactly opposite sides the trans azobenzene absorption band. A third irradiation wavelength was shifted to 438 nm. Distinct saturation levels growth dynamics observed under 388- 420-nm illumination, while very similar characteristics were recorded Differences obtained signals explained considering cis isomer photoisomerization pathways.