Optimizing multiphoton chemistry for 3D optical processes and technologies

Summary form only given. Two-photon excitation provides a means of activating chemical or physical processes with high spatial resolution in three dimensions and has enabled the development of 3D fluorescence imaging, 3D optical data storage, and 3D lithographic microfabrication. We have developed a wide array of chromophores which hold great promise for two-photon applications. These molecules are based on a donor-/spl pi/-donor, donor-acceptor-donor, or acceptor-donor-acceptor structural motifs. The magnitude of the two-photon absorption cross section and the position of the two-photon absorption maximum can be controlled by varying the length of the conjugated bridge and by varying the strength of the donor and acceptor groups. In this way, chromophores have been developed which exhibit strong two-photon absorption in the range of 500-975 nm.