Material parameters ensuring stability of the twist-bend nematic phase

ABSTRACT

Properties of the theoretical model of the twist-bend nematic phase (N_TB) proposed by Barbero et al. were taken into account. In particular, the role of material parameters that determine the free energy density of the phase was investigated. The regions in parameter space ensuring stability of the N_TB were found. Relationships between the parameters, tilt angle and pitch were presented. The ranges of parameters that lead to long (short) pitch and large (small) tilt angle were distinguished. The results allow to obtain useful sets of parameters suitable for studies of stable twist-bend nematic phase.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Twist-bend nematics
• modulated nematic phases
• material parameters
• helical nematic phases

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).