Scientists study liquid crystal properties

TECH SPACE

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by staff writers
Kent, Ohio (UPI) Dec 18, 2006
U.S. scientists say changing the size of colloids -- micro- or nanometer-sized particles -- makes a big difference in the properties of liquid crystals.

Kent State University scientists say they've demonstrated when the concentration and size of the colloids and liquid crystals are properly tuned, the systems formed promise a new technique for synthesizing liquid crystals with specific molecular properties.

The researchers said the ferroelectric nanoparticles have a significant impact on the material properties of the liquid crystal host. And they are stable in the liquid crystals and invisible to naked eye.

Manipulation of such systems, said the researchers, also leads to a reduction in the amount of power required to run liquid crystal displays, such as computer screens, and could result in creation of a range of different liquid crystal materials for a wide variety of applications.

The study appeared in a recent issue of the journal Physical Review Letters.

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