The aim of this paper is to discuss the benefits as well as the limitations of utilizing photopolymer materials in the design of holograms that are responsive to changes in their environment, such as changes in the concentration of a specific substance, temperature, and pressure. Three different case studies are presented, including both surface and volume phase holograms, in order to demonstrate the flexibility in the approach of utilizing holographic photopolymers for the design of sensors and interactive optical devices. First, a functionalized surface relief hologram is demonstrated to operate as an optical sensor for the detection of metal ions in water. The sensitivity and selectivity of the sensor are investigated. The second example demonstrates a volume transmission hologram recorded in a temperature-sensitive photopolymer and the memory effects of its exposure to elevated temperature. Finally, a pressure-sensitive reflection hologram that changes color under application of pressure is characterized, and its potential application in document authentication is described.

Novel BODIPY forming triplet excited states via the SOCT-ISC process was used for polymerization of methacrylate monomers inside a hybrid sol–gel material. Holographic recording of diffractive structures with high efficiency was demonstrated.