title: Modeling smectic layers in confined geometries: order parameter and defects.
abstract: We identify problems with the standard complex order parameter formalism for smectic-A (SmA) liquid crystals and discuss possible alternative descriptions of smectic order. In particular, we suggest an approach based on the real smectic density variation rather than a complex order parameter. This approach gives reasonable numerical results for the smectic layer configuration and director field in sample geometries and can be used to model smectic liquid crystals under nanoscale confinement for technological applications.
authors.affiliation: Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, USA.
authors.forename: Mykhailo Y
authors.initials: MY
authors.lastname: Pevnyi
authors.affiliation: Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, USA.
authors.forename: Jonathan V
authors.initials: JV
authors.lastname: Selinger
authors.affiliation: School of Mathematics, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Timothy J
authors.initials: TJ
authors.lastname: Sluckin
mesh_terms: D050866:Liquid Crystals / Q000737:chemistry*; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D013816:Thermodynamics