Violet-emitting distributed-feedback laser using a naphtho[2,1-b:6,5-b ']difuran derivative

A naphtho[2,1-b:6,5-b ']difuran derivative was found to serve as an effective violet-emitting laser dye. It showed amplified spontaneous emission at 413 nm with the threshold of 1.1-2.9 mJ cm(-2) using 0.1-0.5 wt% in polystyrene film. Lasing was also demonstrated using all-polymeric distributed-feedback lasers emitting at 411-417 nm with the threshold of 2.0-2.9 mJ cm(-2).