We present a form of reversible optical storage in azopolymer films using optical poling strategy. The experiments consist of an optical seeding process with co-propagating ω and 2ω beams where 2ω frequency serves as an object wave. The storage characteristics for two kinds of systems, namely guest-host and side-chain polymers were demonstrated. It was observed that the recorded image could be stored for long time owing to optically induced quasi-permanent dipole alignment. The paper includes the influence of seeding energy ratio Eω/E2ω on optical writing and erasing profiles.

Topics
Thermotropic liquid crystals, Polymers, Thin films
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© 2004 Laser Institute of America.
2004
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