Feature issue introduction: Organic and polymeric materials for photonic applications

In the past three to four decades, organic and polymeric materials have figured prominently in photonic applications. The inorganic films and crystals of the early photonics era are being replaced by hybrid, organic or biomaterials in laboratories around the world. This is partly due to the exploration of new organic and polymeric materials as well as the increased understanding of inorganic nanomaterials. Consumer electronics and communication industries are searching for niche applications to drive growth of their sectors as well as strengthen their traditional activities. Interest is growing for soft, flexible, wearable and embedded devices. Organic and polymeric materials can contribute significantly to the growth and consolidation of such trends. In this context, we present here the proceedings of ICFPAM 2016 with a special issue themed on organic and polymeric photonics. ICFPAM 2016 featured major topics of current and future interest in polymer science, advanced materials and technologies and the feature issue presents a cross-section of highlighted research at the conference.