Abstract

The ultimate goal of this project is to synthesize a novel UV-cross-linkable non-linear optical (NLO) pendant polyimide. The following work is dedicated to the synthesis and exposure optimization of the UV cross-linkable component. Knowing that highly stable NLO properties can be achieved through cross-linked polymer matrices, where polymer chain immobilization leads to unidirectional orientation of NLO-phores in poled polymer resulting in maximized operational lifetime and the complete cross-linking cannot be achieved even after a long irradiation time for a photo-cross-linkable polymer, a chalcone-based UV curable Model Compound was synthesized and exposed to UV light. Optimization was carried out with respect to four factors: (1) UV light wavelength, (2) Solvent for exposure, (3) Solution concentration and (4) Optimum exposure time. For (1)-(3), UV light of 300nm, lower concentrations of solutions and tetrahydrofuran as a solvent were established using LC Mass Spectroscopy, UV-Vis Spectroscopy, FTIR and NMR characterization techniques. For (4), we determined the optimum curing time for maximum polymer chain immobilization, as reflected by Model Compound solution viscosity and mechanical properties of Model Compound-Polyimide blends (1:7 by weight). Tensile and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) analysis of blend films agreed with viscosity results that exposure beyond 45 minutes yielded little additional cross-linking in our UV exposure apparatus.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Polyimides--Synthesis; Nonlinear optics--Materials

Publication Date

7-1-2011

Document Type

Thesis

Department, Program, or Center

Center for Materials Science and Engineering

Advisor

Illingsworth, Marvin

Comments

Note: imported from RIT’s Digital Media Library running on DSpace to RIT Scholar Works. Physical copy available through RIT's The Wallace Library at: TP1180.P66 Z67 2011

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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