Synthesis and Characterization of Epoxy Polymers Containing Azobenzene Groups that Exhibit Optical Birefringence

R. FERNÁNDEZ; I. MONDRAGÓN; P.A. OYANGUREN; M.J. GALANTE

REACTIVE & FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS

ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV

Año: 2008 vol. 68 p. 70 - 76

1381-5148

A push–pull azo dye (DO3) was used as photosensitive substance to satisfactorily synthesize new epoxy polymers con- 13 taining azo groups covalently linked. Three different amines BA, TA and MXDA were used as hardeners. Materials withtaining azo groups covalently linked. Three different amines BA, TA and MXDA were used as hardeners. Materials with 14 different chemical structure and azo group concentration were prepared. The polymerization kinetics was followed usingdifferent chemical structure and azo group concentration were prepared. The polymerization kinetics was followed using 15 SEC, FTIR and DSC. It was observed that polymerization rate increases with the azo chromophore incorporation andSEC, FTIR and DSC. It was observed that polymerization rate increases with the azo chromophore incorporation and 16 with the photosensitive component concentration in the reaction precursors. The photoinduced birefringence of thewith the photosensitive component concentration in the reaction precursors. The photoinduced birefringence of the 17 obtained films has been analyzed. A completely reversible optical orientation was reached.obtained films has been analyzed. A completely reversible optical orientation was reached.