Dyes in modified polymers:, problems of photostability and conversion efficiency at high intensities

We present the results of the investigation of modified polymethyl methacrylate doped with xanthene-series dyes, phthalocyanine, and chelates in the regimes of laser generation and saturated absorption. The mechanisms responsible for the lasing and the bleaching efficiencies and for the dyes’ photodestruction are discussed. Experimental results are presented that confirm the appropriateness of the mechanisms and methods suggested for increasing the conversion efficiency and photostability. The results obtained lead us to formulate the basic principles for choosing the composition and the methods for synthesis of dye-doped polymer materials for high-intensity laser optics.