Biaxial nematic order induced by smectic fluctuations

C Zhang1, S Chakraborty, T Ostapenko

  • 1Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, USA.

Summary

This study reveals short-range smectic order in calamitic liquid crystals, influencing their magneto-optical properties. The findings suggest a coupling between nematic and smectic order parameters, leading to apparent biaxial behavior.

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