Phase-only modulation by nanosized polymer-dispersed liquid crystals

Abstract

We report the preparation methods and electro-optical characterization of polymer-dispersed liquid crystals with nanosized liquid crystal domains obtained by using a multifunctional monomer in a prepolymer mixture that is suitable for a fast photopolymerization process. The electric-field-induced optical phase shift has been measured using a Mach–Zender interferometer, getting values up to π/2 with an applied voltage of about 20 V/μm with no dependence on the light polarization. The high transmittance of the samples make them suitable for photonic devices and telecom applications.