Tuning the magneto-optic response of maghemite doped poly(phenylmethylvinyl siloxane) through electric field based nanoparticle orientation

Maghemite nanoparticles were doped in optical poly phenyl methyl vinyl siloxane and oriented by externally applied electric fields before curing. Consequent change in the morphology of the nanocomposite was observed and characterized using small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS). After curing, Faraday rotation measurements were carried out at 632.8 nm. Electric field based alignment in addition to presence of the nanodopants enhanced the magneto-optic sensitivity by 14.3-48.6% for the polymer nanocomposites. A linear trend was observed between orienting electric fields and measured Faraday rotation angles. Limits on applicable electric fields for dopant concentrations were also ascertained from the magneto-optic response.