Study on novel second-order NLO azo-based chromophores containing strong electron-withdrawing groups and different conjugated bridges

Novel NLO azo-based chromophores containing strong electron-withdrawing groups and benzene or thiazole moiety as conjugated bridges were synthesized and characterized. β values were measured by HRS method, they are in the range of 238–1459 × 10−30 esu at the fundamental wavelength of 800 nm. For chromopheres 3 and 4, β values at the fundamental wavelength of 1064 nm were also measured, they are 1575 × 10−30 esu and 935 × 10−30 esu, respectively. Thermal stabilities for these chromophores are reported. We also discuss the effects of different acceptors and conjugating moieties on β.