Light scattering from nematic droplets: Anomalous-diffraction approach

Abstract

The scattering matrix, differential cross section, and total cross section for supramicrometer-size nematic droplets in a polymeric matrix are derived in the anomalous-diffraction approach. Scattering patterns are calculated in detail for three different nematic-director configurations: one characteristic of a droplet in a strong external field, the other characteristic of a droplet outside the field in the case of normal surface anchoring, and the third characteristic of an isotropic droplet with a surface-induced nematic layer. The results, which are presented graphically, indicate strong dependence of the diffraction patterns on wavelength and droplet structure. The possibilities of determining droplet size and nematic-director structure from experimental light scattering data are discussed. Special attention is paid to the possibility of the detection of the surface-induced nematic ordering.