Polymer-encapsulated blue phase liquid crystal droplets

Kemiklioglu E., Chien L.

Applied Physics Express, vol.7, no.9, 2014 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 7 Issue: 9
  • Publication Date: 2014
  • Doi Number: 10.7567/apex.7.091701
  • Journal Name: Applied Physics Express
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Manisa Celal Bayar University Affiliated: No

Abstract

We have demonstrated polymer-encapsulated blue phase (PEBP) liquid crystal droplets in electro-optical films with in-plane electric field switching. The PEBP films are prepared via solvent evaporation-induced phase separation of a mixture of blue phase liquid crystal (BPLC) and polymer latex. The PEBP films, laminated between two indium-tin-oxide coated conductive substrates, enable switching between light-scattering and transparent states in response to electric fields applied across the film. The PEBP films also allow in-plane switching to induce birefringence between crossed polarizers at low switching voltage and with fast response time.