Photorefractivity in polymer composites

We report on the results of studies of photorefractive properties of a multicomponent polymer composite of PVK-TCP:C60:DEANST. Efficient plasticization of the host polymeric matrix with the TCP agent and utilization of a nonlinear chromophore with large dipole moment allow for achieving large poling-induced electro-optic coefficient. Diffraction efficiencies exceeding 40% and stationary nonreciprocal net two-beam coupling gain coefficients in excess of 100 cm-1, surpassing those of known inorganic single-crystalline photorefractive media, are reported. Dependency of the kinetics of photorefractivity in the composite on external electric field and writing beams fluencies is discussed. An example of holographic recording and retrieval of an image of the standard USAF optical resolution target is also demonstrated.