The escape-configuration lattice near the nematic-isotropic transition: tilt analogue of blue phases

ORAL

Abstract

We predict the possible existence of a new phase of liquid crystals near the nematic-isotropic ($ NI $) transition. This phase is an achiral,tilt analogue of the blue phase and is composed of a lattice of {\em double-tilt}, escape- configuration cylinders. We discuss the structure and the stability of this phase and provide an estimate of the lattice parameter.

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Authors

  • Yashodhan Hatwalne

    • Raman Research Institute, C. V. Raman Avenue, Sadashivanagar, Bangalore 560080, India.

  • Buddhapriya Chakrabarti

    • Department of Physics, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
    • Department of Physics, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003.

  • N.V. Madhusudhana

    • Raman Research Institute, C. V. Raman Avenue, Sadashivanagar, Bangalore 560080, India.