On the occurrence of point and ring defects in the nematic-nematic coexistence range of a binary mixture of rod-like and disc-like mesogens

Pratibha, R. ; Madhusudana, N. V. (1990) On the occurrence of point and ring defects in the nematic-nematic coexistence range of a binary mixture of rod-like and disc-like mesogens Molecular Crystals and Liquid Crystals, 178 . pp. 167-178. ISSN 1058-725X

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Related URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00268949008042717

Abstract

We report some observations on the director configurations in the coexistence range of two nematic phases, NR and ND in a binary mixture of rod-like and disc- like nematogens. The director alignment is continuous across the boundary of the NR and ND phases. Point defects of strength + 1 in NR droplets in an otherwise continuous ND medium are found to be annulled by singular ring disclinations of strength - ½ Further, the NR drops which orient homeotropically at the glass plates have a point defect of strength + 1 only if their size is less than about 7 μm. Larger drops have ring disclinations of strength + ½ instead of + 1 point defects. This changeover can be understood on the basis of simple energy considerations.

Item Type:Article
Source:Copyright of this article belongs to Taylor and Francis Ltd.
Keywords:Point Defects; Ring Defects; Nematic-nematic Coexistence
ID Code:20785
Deposited On:20 Nov 2010 13:34
Last Modified:17 May 2016 05:03

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