Electrically switchable, one-dimensional polymeric resonators from holographic photopolymerization: A new approach for active photonic bandgap materials

Stimulated emission is demonstrated by optically pumping chromophores within the liquid-crystal domains of 1D bandgap structures that are derived from holographic polymer-dispersed liquid-crystal (H-PDLC) gratings (see Figure). Electrically switchable laser resonance is also possible using the H-PDLC, since applying an electric field across the grating aligns the directors of the liquid crystal, diminishing the refractive index profile and, consequently, the lasing action.