Morphing of liquid crystal surfaces by emergent collectivity

Nature Communications
Hanne M van der KooijJoris Sprakel

Abstract

Liquid crystal surfaces can undergo topographical morphing in response to external cues. These shape-shifting coatings promise a revolution in various applications, from haptic feedback in soft robotics or displays to self-cleaning solar panels. The changes in surface topography can be controlled by tailoring the molecular architecture and mechanics of the liquid crystal network. However, the nanoscopic mechanisms that drive morphological transitions remain unclear. Here, we introduce a frequency-resolved nanostrain imaging method to elucidate the emergent dynamics underlying field-induced shape-shifting. We show how surface morphing occurs in three distinct stages: (i) the molecular dipoles oscillate with the alternating field (10-100 ms), (ii) this leads to collective plasticization of the glassy network (~1 s), (iii) culminating in actuation of the topography (10-100 s). The first stage appears universal and governed by dielectric coupling. By contrast, yielding and deformation rely on a delicate balance between liquid crystal order, field properties and network viscoelasticity.

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Citations

Mar 7, 2020·Advanced Materials·Joselle M McCrackenTimothy J White
Nov 21, 2020·Physical Review. E·Guido L A KustersCornelis Storm
Jul 30, 2021·Journal of the American Chemical Society·Adrian Gonzalez-NelsonMonique A van der Veen
Apr 9, 2020·ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·Hanne M van der KooijJoris Sprakel
Sep 3, 2021·The Review of Scientific Instruments·R AntonelliT E Kodger

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Methods Mentioned

BETA
optical microscopy
imaging technique

Software Mentioned

Matlab

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