Novel light detection and sensing devices based on optical nanocomposites

The promise, some fact and some fanciful, of nanotechnology has led to a well funded global race to develop new materials, components, and devices for use in a remarkably diverse range of applications. Towards the true realization of commercial- and defense-relevant devices, this paper focuses on passive and active optical detecting and sensing devices whose performance is markedly improved, with respect to traditional analogs, through the use of nanocomposite materials. Specifically to be discussed are efficient organic photovoltaics (OPVs) fabricated using doped and undoped carbon nanotube-containing conjugated polymers. All-organic photonic crystals based on ordered arrays of nanoparticles encapsulated in elastomeric matrices also are discussed. These nanocomposites exhibit bandstops that are highly tunable though stain generated by mechanical forces (mechano-chromism) or chemical affinity (chemo-chromism) which opens new doors for optical beam steering and chemical sensing.