From Chaos to Order: Dominant Effect of 1D Microgrooves on Electrically Induced 2D Supramolecular Chiral Microstructural Order

Zhi-Qun Wang^1*, Yu-Jun Wong¹, Chia-Rong Lee¹

¹department of Photonics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan

* Presenter:Zhi-Qun Wang, email:L78101024@gs.ncku.edu.tw

Self-assembled periodic micro/nanostructure responses triggered by external excitation frequently occur in anisotropic self-assembled supramolecular systems such as liquid crystal systems. However, the order of these structures is hardly controlled. This study sets a precedent that large-area ordering of 2D supramolecular chiral microstructures based on electro-Helfrich deformation can be achieved using the guidance of 1D periodic microgrooves on pre-established substrates. The effect of the depth and spacing of the microgrooves on the arrangement of the 2D microgrid structure was also investigated. It is expected that this approach can be applied to general self-assembled periodic microstructures regardless of external stimuli or materials.

Keywords: cholesteric liquid crystal, Helfrich deformation, microgroove, electrically induced microstructure