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12 February 2008Effect of ionizing radiation on infrared polarizers based on conductive polymer
Conductive polymers have become an extremely useful class of materials for many optical applications.
We have developed an electrochemical growth method for depositing highly conductive (~100 S/cm)
polypyrrole. Additionally, we have adapted advanced fabrication methods for use with the polypyrrole
resulting in gratings with submicron features. This conductive polymer micro-wire grid provides an optical
polarizer with unique properties. When the polymer is exposed to ionizing radiation, its conductivity is
affected and the polarization properties of the device, specifically the extinction ratio, change in a
corresponding manner. This change in polarization properties can be determined by optically interrogating
the device, possibly from a remote location. The result is a passive radiation-sensitive sensor with very low
optical visibility. The ability to interrogate the device from a safe standoff distance provides a device
useful in potentially dangerous environments. Also, the passive nature of the device make it applicable in
applications where external power is not available. We will review the polymer deposition, fabrication
methods and device design and modeling. The characterization of the polymer's sensitivity to ionizing
radiation and optical testing of infrared polarizers before and after irradiation will also be presented. These
experimental results will highlight the usefulness of the conductive infrared polarizer to many security and
monitoring applications.
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R. R. Boye, C. M. Washburn, S. Samora, S. A. Kemme, D. R. Wheeler, D. L. Buller, "Effect of ionizing radiation on infrared polarizers based on conductive polymer," Proc. SPIE 6891, Organic Photonic Materials and Devices X, 68910U (12 February 2008); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.763891