Formation of Direct Surface Relief in Photochrome-Chalcogenide Composites

A method for preparation of thin triple composite films of organic polymer-chalcogenide-photochromes is described, the photo-induced changes of optical properties and holographic recording are considered. The films were obtained from solutions of arsenic sulphide, azobenzene Disperse Red 1, spiropyran, and organic polymers in organic solvents. The solutions were spread over glass or quartz substrates; the thickness of dry films was 3-10 μm. The absorption spectra of the prepared films were studied and analyzed. The holographic recording of diffraction gratings was performed by laser lines of 325 nm, 442 nm and 532 nm. During recording the diffraction efficiency was measured simultaneously in the transmission and reflection modes. The relief formation on the film surface was observed and the profile of the gratings formed was analyzed using AFM microscope. The influence of photoisomerization and photo-induced mass transport on the surface relief formation process is discussed.