Nonlinear Optical Properties of PMMA Composites Using Z-Scan Technique

Abstract

The nonlinear refractive index and the nonlinear absorption coefficient of unmodified and functional poly(methyl methacrylate) PMMA films were studied before and after the addition of the filler by the z-scan technique, using a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser at two wavelengths: 532 nm and 1064 nm, and at three input energies (13, 33 and 53) mJ. Both linear and nonlinear refractive indices and absorption coefficients of polymer films were studied by using UV-VIS spectrophotometer. The results show that the creation of functional PMMA from unmodified PMMA will increase the nonlinear optical properties in the functional PMMA/copper matrix more than in the unmodified PMMA/copper matrix. Hence, the functional PMMA appears promising as a useful third-order nonlinear material. The nonlinear refractive index is directly proportional to the input intensity and directly proportional to the increase in the concentration of the filler, while the nonlinear absorption coefficient is inversely proportional to the input energy and inversely proportional to the increase in the concentration of the filler. The nonlinear effect is more enhanced at the 532 nm wavelength than at 1064 nm..