An azo metal chelate compound with push pull electronic system was synthesized. Smooth thin films were prepared by spin coating. The absorption, transmission and reflection spectra of the films were measured. The optical constant (complex refractive index N=n +i k ) of the film was determined using scanning ellipsometer, and the complex dielectric function ε as well as absorption coefficient α were then calculated. Dynamic optical recording test indicated that the azo metal chelate dye was a promising candidate as optical recording medium.
