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Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/127786
Healing of defects at the interface of nematic liquid crystals and structured Langmuir-Blodgett monolayers
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We use Langmuir-Blodgett molecular monolayers and nematic liquid crystals as model two-and three-dimensional orientationally ordered systems to study the stability and healing of topological defects at their contact interfaces. Integer-strength defects at the monolayer induce disclinations of similar strength in the nematic that, however, do not propagate deep into the bulk, but rather form single- or double-split arch-shaped loops pinned to the interface. This behavior is qualitatively independent of the far-field director orientation and involves either half-integer singular or twist-escaped unity-strength nonsingular nematic disclinations. These two defect configurations can be selected by varying sample preparation given their comparable free energy, consistently with direct probing by use of laser tweezers.
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PETIT GARRIDO, Núria, et al. Healing of defects at the interface of nematic liquid crystals and structured Langmuir-Blodgett monolayers. Physical Review Letters. 2011. Vol. 107, num. 177801-177801. ISSN 0031-9007. [consulted: 7 of June of 2026]. Available at: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/127786