Molecular Orientation in Optical Polymer Films

Abstract

In this thesis, orientation, dynamics, and electric conduction is investigated in films of various electro-optic polymers as functions of different parameters, such as the poling temperature and the chromophore concentration. The chromophore orientation distribution function is determined using electro-optic and dichroism measurements. The results are compared with those obtained by density-functional calculations and complementary wide-angle X-ray scattering. Time-resolved ellipsometry is used to record and analyze the dynamics of molecular orientation. Furthermore, dielectric spectroscopy is applied to investigate the influence of orientation on electronic conduction properties. The results of the analysis of the experimental data are compared with those obtained by Monte-Carlo simulations.