Real-time near-field imaging of photoinduced matter motion in thin solid films containing azobenzene derivatives

Journal Article · Mon Jan 19 04:00:00 EST 2009 · Applied Physics Letters

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.3073742· OSTI ID:21175880

Garrot, D; Lassailly, Y; Lahlil, K; Boilot, J P; Peretti, J ^[1]

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1. Physique de la Matiere Condensee, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, 91128 Palaiseau (France)

We present a study of the formation of surface relief gratings in thin solid films containing azobenzene derivatives upon illumination with an interference pattern. This study is based on near-field microscopy techniques that provide real-time imaging of both the photomechanical response of the material and light excitation profile. We demonstrate that the material deformation follows two distinct regimes characterized by different kinetics, a different phase relative to the light intensity pattern, and a specific dependence on light polarization.

• OSTI ID: 21175880
• Journal Information: Applied Physics Letters, Journal Name: Applied Physics Letters Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 94; ISSN APPLAB; ISSN 0003-6951
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
DEFORMATION
INTERFERENCE
MICROSCOPY
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
POLARIZATION
SURFACE PROPERTIES
THIN FILMS