Reviewing Ferroelectric Nematic Liquid Crystals: From Fundamental Properties to Cutting‐Edge Applications
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: ABSTRACT Ferroelectric nematic (N F ) liquid crystals (LCs) have garnered substantial interest due to their unique polar ordering, phase transitions, and electro‐optic (E‐O) properties, with potential applications spanning from low‐power reflective displays to advanced photonics and microfluidics. This review explores the multifaceted nature of N F LCs and comprehensively analyzes their phase behavior, alignment, and surface interactions. Notable findings include the nematic (N)‐N F phase transition's weak first‐order nature, surface treatments' role in inducing polar order, and meron‐like structures resembling ferromagnetic domains. Furthermore, the review highlights the tunability of N F LCs under electric fields, offering exciting possibilities for adaptive optics, sensors, and actuators. Despite these advancements, challenges remain in optimizing molecular alignment, controlling defects, and expanding the scalability of N F LC technologies. By addressing key experimental and theoretical studies, this review aims to present a deeper understanding of N F liquid crystals' E‐O responses, phase transitions, and their potential to revolutionize future LC‐based technologies.
Source: Applied Research
DOI: 10.1002/appl.70018
Author: Raj Kumar Khan
Institution: Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology
Language: English
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4410520941