Peter J. Collings
Jay S. Patel
Oxford University Press
1997
Synopsis
This reference provides a critical review of the scientific and technological advances in liquid crystal research over the past 15 years, emphasizing the work that has been crucial in developing simple but powerful models describing the complex phenomena of liquid crystals during this period. The volume treats both pure scientific theories and processes and applied scientific and technological advanced in roughly equal proportions. Each of the 15 chapters is written by an expert in the field, and each chapter provides a wide range of references that may be consulted for more detailed information.
Book Description
Liquid crystal technology is one of the most important developments in today's world. Materials can have their molecules realigned, using magnetic or electrical fields, and in the process acquire the properties of both solids and liquids. These new materials are also inexpensive, occupy small spaces, and use little energy. As a result, liquid crystal materials are increasingly used in everyday objects: notebook computer screens, flat screen TV's, stereo displays, 3-D computer chips, and displays on phones and digital watches. This book brings together the most important research from this field in the last 15 years, presenting a timely reference for professionals in chemistry and physics, and those leading institutions and businesses that work with cutting-edge technologies. The book covers both theory and practice, explaining both the processes that govern liquid crystals and their scientific and technological applications. Extensive references to papers and reviews on critical aspects of this technology are included. An introductory chapter gives readers a general background, followed by chapters from leading experts on such topics as synthesis and new materials, theory and computation, phase structures and transitions, ferroelectrics and external field effects, interfaces and surfaces, liquid crystal polymers, addressing schemes, communication devices, optical linear phenomena in liquid crystals, and bistable displays. Anyone who works with liquid crystals will welcome this reference on their bookshelves.