Course detail

Photoinduced Processes in Molecular Materials

FCH-DA_FPDAcad. year: 2025/2026

The course is focused on the interaction of photons with organic molecules, molecular crystals and polymers. The primary processes of optical absorption, fluorescence, phosphorescence, non-radiative transitions and generation of excited species, such as excitons, excimers, exciplexes and photoinduced charge transfer states, are discussed in detail. The explanation of basic terms is followed by a complex analysis of photophysical and photochemical processes, such as photochromism, photoconductivity, electroluminescence, photodielectric effect, excitation energy transfer, photosynthesis, photodegradation of materials and some non-linear optical effects. From the application point of view, the principles of basic molecular optoelectronic elements, such as optical memories, photodetectors, solar cells, electroluminescent displays and non-linear optical elements (photorefractive and holographic memories) are discussed. From the chemical point of view, examples are mentioned of relations of molecular structures, physical and chemical properties of materials, types of basic chemical syntheses, and modifications of low-molecular-weight and polymer materials.

Language of instruction

English

Mode of study

Not applicable.

Entry knowledge

Not applicable.

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

Not applicable.

Aims

Not applicable.

Study aids

Not applicable.

Prerequisites and corequisites

Not applicable.

Basic literature

N. J. Turro, Modern Molecular Photochemistry, The Benjamin/Cummings Publishing Company, inc., London, 1991 (EN)

Recommended reading

J. B. Birks, Photophysics of aromatic molecules, Wiiley-Interscience, London, 1970 (EN)
J-L Bredas, S. R. Marder, Organic Semiconductors, World Scientific, London, 2016 (EN)
N. V. Tkachenko, Optical Spectroscopy Methods and Instrumentation, Elsevier, Amsterdam, 2006 (EN)
S. A. Jenekhe, K. J. Wynne, Photonic and optoelectronic polymers, American Chemical Society, Washington, 1995 (EN)

Classification of course in study plans

  • Programme DPAP_CHM_4_N Doctoral 1 year of study, winter semester, compulsory-optional
  • Programme DKAP_CHM_4_N Doctoral 1 year of study, winter semester, compulsory-optional