Synthesis and non-linear optical properties of substituted styrylpyridinium–MPS3 intercalation compounds (M = Mn, Cd)

Abstract

New intercalation compounds, M_1–xPS₃(G)_2x(H₂O)_y(M = Mn, Cd) have been synthesized, where G denotes the 4-[4-(dimethylamino)-α-styryl]-1-methylpyridinium cationic chromophore. The non-linear optical properties of these materials were studied by the Kurtz powder technique. Second-harmonic generation has been evidenced, with an efficiency comparable to that of urea. This preliminary result shows that MPS₃ layered host lattices can be envisaged for achieving spontaneous poling of cationic chromophores.