Novel non-aggregated unsymmetrical metallophthalocyanines for second-order nonlinear optics

Novel soluble unsymmetrical metallophthalocyanines with twelve 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy groups as donor substituents and a mono-nitro or an exocyclic conjugated nitro group as an acceptor substituent have been synthesized and characterized. A study of the concentration dependence of UV-VIS absorption spectra showed they were non-aggregated phthalocyanines in solution and in doped polymer films. Second harmonic generation of spin-coated thin films of poly(methyl methacrylate) doped with these metallophthalocyanines was observed after electric poling at 110 degrees C for 30 min at a fundamental wavelength of 1.064 mu m.