Polarized light-induced anisotropy depending on polymer matrices studied by polarized ftir spectroscopy

Polarized-light induced anisotropy of Disperse Orange 3 (DO3) depending on the polymer matrices was investigated by polarized FTIR spectroscopy. The dynamic behavior of the azo dyes doped in a series of methacrylate polymers was analyzed in terms of the orientation factors. Two factors, the free volume and the local polarity of matrices, are found to govern the dynamic behavior of DO3. It was found that induced anisotropy for trans and cis isomers varies depending on Tg of polymer matrix. Further, the thermal isomerization rate depend on the isomerization mode which is governed by the matrix polarity. The branched-alkyl chains are considered to block the interaction between ester groups and DO3 and introduce the DO3 molecules into the less polar environment.