Fine structure of point defects and soliton decay in nematic liquid crystals

E. Penzenstadler , H.-R. Trebin

On the basis of Landau-de Gennes-theory it is demonstrated that point defects in nematic liquid crystals may have a biaxial nonsingular core. From this result a critical diameter is derived for linear topological solitons in nematics. Solitons of smaller diameter can relax to the uniform nematic state without energy barrier via an intermediate biaxial phase.

Mots clés: liquid structure; nematic liquid crystals; solitons

Domaines: Articles anciens

E. Penzenstadler, H.-R. Trebin. Fine structure of point defects and soliton decay in nematic liquid crystals. Journal de Physique, 1989, 50 (9), pp.1027-1040. ⟨10.1051/jphys:019890050090102700⟩. ⟨jpa-00210974⟩