Organic azobenzene dyes such as Methyl Red, Sodium Salt (MR) and Brillant Yellow (BY) have unique photorefractive properties that make them ideal for use in 3-dimensional data storage.  When these dyes are co-condensed via the sol-gel method with an inorganic matrix using a silicon spacer such as (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES), the ionic bond formed allows for efficient electron transfer. Using thin films, we are able to characterize our final products through vibrational, electronic, and nuclear techniques.

Ionic sol-based azobenzene hybrid materials

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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