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Sensing and tuning microfiber chirality with nematic chirogyral effect
Simon Čopar1, David Seč1, Luis E Aguirre2
1Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana, Jadranska 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Physical Review. E
|April 15, 2016
Summary
This study reveals how chiral surface anchoring on microfibers influences nematic liquid crystals, enabling sensing of microfiber chirality through optical micrographs. This chirogyral effect offers new methods for material analysis and control.
Area of Science:
- Soft matter physics
- Materials science
- Chirality studies
Background:
- Microfibers are key components in soft materials, influencing microscopic mechanics.
- Chirality, or handedness, plays a crucial role in material properties.
- Nematic liquid crystals exhibit unique responses to external stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the mechanical response of micro-objects to imposed chirality.
- To investigate the coupling between chirality and mechanical response in nematic media.
- To develop a method for sensing the chirality of electrospun cellulose microfibers.
Main Methods:
- Imposing chirality via chiral surface anchoring on immersed microfibers.
- Observing the tilt of disclination rings in an achiral nematic medium.
- Utilizing optical micrographs to reveal anisotropic elastic responses.
- Performing analytical explanations supported by numerical simulations.
- Conducting experiments to test cell confinement and fiber size effects.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a chirogyral effect where microfiber chirality influences nematic medium structure.
- Successfully sensed the chirality of electrospun cellulose microfibers.
- Revealed anisotropy in the elastic response of the nematic host medium.
- Showcased controllable twisting of microfibers and their effect on the nematic medium.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a novel method for experimental discrimination of surface properties.
- Mechanical control over disclination ring shapes is achievable.
- The findings offer insights into the interplay of chirality, mechanics, and soft matter behavior.
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