Magnetic field induced generalized Freedericksz transition in a rigidly anchored simple twisted nematic

U.D. Kini

Using the continuum theory of curvature elasticity of nematics in the small perturbation approximation, the occurrence of magnetic field — induced static periodic domains (PD) relative to that of the homogeneous deformation (HD) is studied for a rigidly anchored simple twisted nematic film as a function of material constants and twist angle, the field being applied normal to the plates. One of two distinct modes of PD is found to be favourable in the case of a polymer nematic studied recently. A model calculation shows, however, that the other PD mode may occur for large twists in materials exhibiting extreme elastic anisotropy. There seems to be no way by which PD can be eliminated by twisting the original director configuration.

Mots clés: elasticity of liquids; liquid crystal phase transformations; nematic liquid crystals

Domaines: Articles anciens

U.D. Kini. Magnetic field induced generalized Freedericksz transition in a rigidly anchored simple twisted nematic. Journal de Physique, 1987, 48 (7), pp.1187-1196. ⟨10.1051/jphys:019870048070118700⟩. ⟨jpa-00210543⟩