Methods to Adjust the Properties of Liquid Crystals & Related Devices: Research Work That Focuses on Improving Various Physical Properties of Liquid Crystal - Polymer/Particle Composites

Liquid crystal (LC) devices are possible because of their large optical birefringence and dielectric anisotropy. Their ubiquitous presence has become a part of modern life. However, the need to improve the physical properties of both LCs and related devices is constantly increasing. In our recent studies, we showed by integrating non-liquid crystalline materials such as specialty particles or well-engineered polymers into a specific LC host, we could enhance the physical properties of LCs and related devices. We believe its possible to change how we perceive and use various LCs and LC based devices. Current research work focused on a few critical factors that can control the physical properties of liquid crystals. Further we presented our cutting-edge work on discovering high transmittance SLCs (HTSLCs) for various visible and NIR applications, a new class of LC-polymer composites. In brief, an 18μm HTSLC device can demonstrate a >95% (600nm) and 99% (NIR) of transmission. At the same time the device can produce >1μm phase shift in 1m-sec. HTSLCs have huge potential for displays, eyewear, adaptive-optics, electro-optic light valve and similar applications.