Multilayer thin films, materials chemistry

An important theme of this volume is the interrelationships among materials chemistry, photonic and optoelectronic properties, and device performance. The design and synthesis of novel polymer compositions and architectures aimed at enhanced properties are emphasized in some chapters. Other contributions feature the development of novel approaches to processing and fabrication of photonic and optoelectronic polymers into thin films, multilayers, fibers, waveguides, gratings, and device structures. These approaches, which emphasize polymer synthesis, processing, and device fabrication, are complementary and synergistic. 

In order to better discuss the role of surface chemistry in photography, it is useful to consider some of the basic features of photographic elements (paper, film, etc.) morphology, exposure and processing. As a start, consider a multilayer photographic element such as that pictured in Figure 5.1. The layer structure illustrated is typical of a simple colour print material, such as colour paper or colour movie print films. Such materials comprise many different types of layers (1), and each layer is prepared as a thin film coating. 

Related work has been done by Rubner s group for materials potentially useful to thin-film electronic and optical devices. Conjugated polymers in neutral and conducting chemistries [57-60], molecular dyes [61] and fullerenes [62] have all been stacked in multilayer arrays. Functional light-emitting diodes have been fabricated from multilayers of poly(p-phenylenevinylene) (PPV) and two different polyanions on active electrodes [63]. These devices have absorption and emission bands and photo-... 

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