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Abstract
Switchable nematic emulsions are micron‐sized droplets of nematic liquid crystal, floating in isotropic fluid matrices. Such droplets can be switched from an opaque (off) to a transparent (on) state by application of very low electric fields. It is known that the electro‐optical properties of liquid crystal dispersions are affected by several parameters, including the liquid crystal loading. The electro‐optical response of nematic emulsions has been investigated as a function of liquid crystal weight percentage. Almost transparent films with a reduced contrast ratio are obtained with lower liquid crystal contents. A macroscopic phase separation is observed when liquid crystal content exceeds 45 wt %. On the contrary, large contrast ratios and very low switching fields can be obtained if liquid crystal ranges from 25 to 35 wt %. Consequently, nematic emulsions prepared in this liquid crystal range can be used as promising systems for electro‐optical applications. In addition to technological developments, these results can help computational and basic studies of phase separation in novel multiphase liquid crystalline materials.
Acknowledgements
MIUR, the Italian Ministry for University, is acknowledged for their financial support (Grants No Ex 60% and PRIN 2005).