Synthesis and Properties of Zwitterionic Chromophores Containing Substituents for Shape Control

The synthesis of a series of new chromophores for nonlinear optics are described. Some of the compounds contain "bulky" groups designed to reduce aggregation between the molecules. While this may not impact on the electro-optic response of the compounds, both X-ray crystallographic and uv-vis spectroscopic studies indicate that such modifications will likely reduce aggregation once the chromophores are incorporated into polymer matrices.