| abstract |
Azo-type optically active compounds and polymers are provided based on compounds of the general structure [substituted aryl]-N=N-[substituted aryl] wherein aryl substituents are introduced which hinder or prohibit rotation around the single bonds of the -N=N- central moiety (as well as around certain other single bonds), to provide "planarized" structures having improved optically active properties, especially electro-optically active properties. These compounds and polymers find use in optically active waveguides. |