Spectroscopic investigations of a novel push–pull azo compound embedded in rigid polymer

A new heterocyclic push–pull azo compound-in-poly(methymethacrylate) (PMMA) film has been made by means of the spin-coating method. The spectroscopic properties of the films have been investigated with the steady-state absorption spectra, and steady-state fluorescence and femtosecond time-resolved fluorescence spectra in the first time, which is an important characteristic for the application of the film. The excited singlet (S1) state lifetimes for trans and cis isomers of the film at room temperature have been measured. The excited triplet (T1) state lifetime of cis isomer of the film has been obtained. The electronic structure of the film has been explained. The results show that the aggregate state of the azo molecules greatly influences its absorption spectra. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]