Electrically Induced Twist in Smectic Liquid-Crystalline Elastomers.
As an approach for electrically controllable actuators, we prepare elastomers of chiral smectic-A liquid crystals, which have an electroclinic effect, i.e., molecular tilt induced by an applied electric field. Surprisingly, our experiments find that an electric field causes a rapid and reversible twisting of the film out of the plane, with a helical sense that depends on the sign of the field. To explain this twist, we develop a continuum elastic theory based on an asymmetry between the front and back of the film. We further present finite-element simulations, which show the dynamic shape change.
Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory , Code 6900, 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20375, United States.
Christopher M
CM
Spillmann
Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory , Code 6900, 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20375, United States.
Jawad
J
Naciri
Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory , Code 6900, 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20375, United States.
B R
BR
Ratna
Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University , Kent, Ohio 44242, United States.
Robin L B
RL
Selinger
Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University , Kent, Ohio 44242, United States.
Jonathan V
JV
Selinger