Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Flakes — A New Form of Domain

Abstract

Abstract Cholesteric liquid crystal polysiloxane oligomers can be prepared in the Grandjean texture and fractured into smaller pieces called flakes. These flakes function as discrete domains whose degree of orientation can be evaluated by means of Fergason's Equation and turbidity. Further, these flakes can be embedded in a carrier providing a mixed system analogous to polymer-dispersed or gel systems. These embedded flakes have applications as color coatings and polarizing paints and inks without the limitations of elevated temperature or applied voltage.