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Squeezing-out dynamics in free-standing smectic films
1Saint Petersburg Institute for Machine Sciences, The Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg 199178, Russia.
The Journal of Chemical Physics
|June 8, 2015
Summary
This study reveals how a smectic layer is removed from a free-standing smectic film. Thermal nucleation and disjoining pressure drive the layer-thinning process, causing squeezing-out.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Free-standing smectic films are crucial in understanding liquid crystal behavior.
- Layer-thinning is a key phenomenon affecting film stability and properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To theoretically investigate the dynamics of single smectic layer removal during thinning.
- To identify the primary mechanisms driving the layer-thinning transition (N → N-1).
Main Methods:
- Theoretical modeling of layer removal dynamics.
- Application of conservation laws for mass and linear momentum.
- Analysis of thermally activated nucleation and disjoining pressure effects.
Main Results:
- Layer removal is initiated by thermally activated nucleation, forming a hole.
- The squeezed-out area expands from the center to the film's edge.
- Disjoining pressure is identified as the main driving force for layer expulsion.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates the physical mechanisms governing smectic layer thinning.
- Understanding these dynamics is vital for controlling thin film properties and stability.
