Observation of a possible tetrahedratic phase in bent-core

ORAL

Abstract

Combined measurements of optical birefringence induced by high magnetic fields and dynamic light scattering have been performed on bent-core liquid crystals at temperatures above their clearing points. The results of these measurements provide compelling evidence of a phase transition between two optically isotropic phases that is consistent with the development of a novel ``tetrahedratic" form of orientational order.

Authors

  • David Wiant

    Kent State University

  • Krishna Neupane

  • Sunil Sharma

  • Antal Jaklu

    Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Liquid Crystal Institute, Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University

  • James Gleeson

    Department of Physics, Kent State University

  • Samael Sprunt

    Department of Physics, Kent State University