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Local self-consistent approach to the phase transition at the nematic liquid-crystal-wall interface
1Dipartimento di Fisica del Politecnico and INFM, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, 10129 Torino, Italy.
Summary
This study analyzes the nematic-isotropic transition in semi-infinite samples using Maier-Saupe theory. Surface field effects influence the transition, with surface tension being significantly lower than experimentally measured values.
Area of Science:
- Thermodynamics and statistical mechanics of liquid crystals.
- Surface phenomena in condensed matter physics.
Background:
- The nematic-isotropic transition is a critical phenomenon in liquid crystals.
- Surface interactions significantly influence bulk properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the nematic-isotropic transition in semi-infinite samples.
- To investigate the impact of surface fields and incomplete molecular interactions.
Main Methods:
- Application of the Maier-Saupe theory.
- Utilizing the van der Waals approximation.
- Analysis of a delocalized surface field.
Main Results:
- The existence of a surface transition depends on surface potential strength.
- Spatial profiles of the order parameter and near-wall ordering were determined.
- Nematic surface tension is approximately one order of magnitude lower than total experimental values.
Conclusions:
- Surface potential strength dictates the occurrence of surface transitions.
- The calculated nematic surface tension is a minor component of the total experimentally observed surface tension.