Self assembling effects of nano-particles in mesomorphic LB films

abstract

Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) films of ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC) doped with low concentration of functionalized nano-particles were prepared and characterised. Technique provides uniqueness for controlling molecular architecture through self-assembling. Pressure–area isotherms indicate nano-particles as well as FLC composite systems have capability to from stable monolayer. The molecular interaction between nano-particles and FLC molecules get increased during barrier compression. We observed various phase changes with doping of nano-particles in the FLC matrix. X-Ray diffraction confirmed that FLC retains its SmC* structure at low concentration doping of nano-particles. AFM images indicate that composites are deposited without disturbing translation behaviour FLC.

Keywords:

• Langmuir-Blodgett thin films
• ferroelectric liquid crystals
• nano-particles

Funding

This work is supported by UGC and DST India.