Provided are methods of depositing polymer solutions on substrates to form various optical elements. A polymer solution may include about 0.1%-30% by weight of a specific polymer having rigid rod-like molecules. The molecules may include various cores, spacers, and sides groups to ensure their solubility, viscosity, and cross-linking ability. The deposition techniques may include slot die, spray, molding, roll coating, and so forth. Pre-deposition techniques may be used to improve wettability and adhesion of substrates. Post-deposition techniques may include ultraviolet cross-linking, specific drying techniques, evaporation of solvent, treating with salt solutions, and shaping. The disclosed polymers and deposition processes may yield optical elements with high refractive index values, such as greater than 1.6. These optical elements may be used as +A plates, −C plates, or biaxial polymers and used as retarders in LCD active panels or as light collimators and light guides.