Flexible one-dimensional electro-spun nanofibers for optoelectronic applications

Abstract Our goal in this study is to investigate the nonlinear optical properties of 5-chloro-2-nitroaniline (5C2NA) nanocrystals embedded in flexible polymeric nanofibers. Structural and morphological studies confirm that the 5C2NA nanocrystals have been effectively incorporated into the polymer matrix in a non-centrosymmetric configuration. We utilized the Kurtz-Perry powder method and non-linear microscopy to confirm the second harmonic generation from the nanofibers which is different from bulk. From that we understood the symmetry breaking occurs due to application of large electric field during electrospinning process. To understand the nonlinear absorption of fiber samples we performed a Z-scan experiment. The results indicated that 5C2NA-PMMA demonstrates optical limiting characteristics. Through an in-depth analysis of the experimental data, the optical limiting threshold and nonlinear absorption coefficient were meticulously derived. The flexible fibers exhibit exceptional performance, characterized by a remarkably high nonlinear absorption coefficient coupled with a low limiting threshold. These attributes distinctly position them as superior to conventional optical materials, underscoring their immense potential for advanced optical limiting and cutting-edge optoelectronic applications.