Effect of Azo Dyes on the Photoconductivity and Diffraction Efficiency of Holographic Recording Media

Abstract

Films of a nonphotoconducting copolymer of styrene with octyl methacrylate doped with azobenzene dyes have been used to create recording media for polarization holography. An increase in the concentration of the azo dye with electron-donor groups in the chromophore, in contrast to unsubstituted azobenzene, leads to photoconductivity and increased diffraction efficiency of the polarization holograms. The diffraction efficiency can also be increased by charging the films in a coronal discharge. Holographic media with such films can find use both for dynamic polarization holography and for the prolonged storage of holographic recordings similar to photothermoplastic recording media.