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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Using optical microscopy, phase shifting interferometry, and atomic force microscopy, we characterize the undulated structures which appear in the meniscus of freestanding ferroelectric smectic-C* films. We demonstrate that these periodic structures correspond to undulations of the smectic-air interface. The resulting striped pattern disappears in the untilted smectic-A phase. The modulation amplitude and wavelength of the instability both depend on meniscus thickness. We study the temperature evolution and propose a model that qualitatively accounts for the observations.
Description
Keywords
Liquid-Crystals Layer Structure Films Strain
Citation
LOUDET, J. C.; DOLGANOV, P. V.; PATRÍCIO, P.; SAADAOUI, H.; CLUZEAU, P. - Undulation Instabilities in the Meniscus of Smectic Membranes. Physical Review Letters. ISSN 0031-9007. Vol. 106, n.º 11 (2011).