Heterogeneity and Dynamics in Azobenzene PMMA Random and Block copolymers for Optical Nanowriting

In this Thesis work it is presented an overview of our investigations and recent developments into liquid crystalline nematic PMA4 homopolymers and copolymers of a side group azobenzene methacrylate, as candidate materials for optical nanowriting. Relaxation processes over different time-length scales are discussed with particular reference to understanding the interplay between homogeneity at the molecular level, bit stability and working temperature range. Suitability of topography and birefringence writings is illustrated with examples of imprinted information at the nanometer scale.