Scanning electro-optical and pyroelectrical microscopy for the investigation of polarization patterns in poled polymers

Compact and simple experimental setups for scanning pyroelectrical and electro-optical microscopy are introduced. Their feasibility is demonstrated with scans of periodically poled layers of a nonlinear optical side-chain polymer. While the scanning pyroelectrical microscope has a less complex design and is easier to use, the scanning electro-optical microscope exhibits better spatial resolution and higher contrast. Both tools will be essential for optimizing the patterned poling of nonlinear optical waveguides, modulators, and sensors.