Porous and Pillar Structures Formed by Anodization for Vertical Alignment of Nematic Liquid Crystal

Abstract

Porous anodic alumina and pillar titania structures have been fabricated and used for the vertical alignment of nematic liquid crystals (LCs). Reliable LC penetration into pores was achieved for a pore entrance of more than 20 nm in width. The LC penetration into pillar structures has no restrictions owing to the absence of closed pore spaces. The aspect ratios of titania pillars ranged from 2 up 6, the maximum of which was limited by the mechanical stability of the fabricated pillars. The approaches developed are useful in fabricating LC projection displays.