Molecular hyperpolarizabilities of coumarin dyes

The molecular hyperpolarizabilities of 14 amine-substituted coumarins have been measured by electric-field-induced second harmonic generation (EFISH). The results are compared with semiempirical calculations. Conclusions are drawn with regard to preferability of the various electron donors and acceptors involved, as well as to the utility of these compounds in the three major applications for nonlinear optical chromophores. © 1994 American Chemical Society.