An optical device composition of the present invention includes a trifluorovinyl group containing polyimide that is crosslinkable and thermally stable after crosslinking. The invention relates to a polyimide composition which provides either passive or active wave-guide optical capabilities. More particularly since the composition comprises a chromophore which shows non-linear optical ability, the composition can be used for an active wave guide material, such as modulator or switching device compositions. Furthermore, the composition may include a trifluorovinyl containing chromophore and polyimide which comprises non-linear optical ability in the matrix polymer system.