In situ X-ray absorption fine structure detection of reversible photoinduced anisotropy in amorphous selenium

Photoinduced anisotropy in amorphous selenium ( a-Se) has been studied by in situ x-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy. It is found that upon irradiation with linearly polarized light the chainlike fragments in a-Se are oriented with their c-axis perpendicular to the polarization plane of the inducing light. This chain orientation is reversible, correlates with optical anisotropy, and acts as a prelude to photoinduced anisotropic crystallization. This optically controlled reorientation of molecular fragments in a solid can be a basis for future novel devices.