Photonic features of blue phase liquid crystals under curved confinement

Blue phase (BP) liquid crystals represent a fascinating state of soft matter that showcases unique optical and electro-optical properties. Existing between chiral nematic and isotropic phases, BPs are characterized by a three-dimensional cubic lattice structure resulting in selective Bragg reflections of light and consequent vivid structural colors. However, the practical realization of these material systems is hampered by their narrow thermal stability and multi-domain crystalline nature. This feature article provides an overview of the efforts devoted to stabilizing these phases and creating monodomain structures. In particular, it delves into the complex relationship between geometrical confinement, induced curvature, and the structural stability and photonic features of BPs. Understanding the interaction of curved confinement and structural stability of BPs proves crucially important for the integration of these materials into flexible and miniaturized devices. By shedding light on these critical aspects, this feature review aims to highlight the significance of understanding the coupling effects of physical and mechanical forces on the structural stability of these systems, which can pave the way for the development of efficient and practical devices based on BP liquid crystals. A discussion of the influence of spatial confinement and curved boundaries on the photonic properties of Blue Phase soft nanocrystals.

Automated summary

Blue phase liquid crystals possess unique optical and electro-optical properties but are limited by their thermal stability and crystalline nature. This feature article provides an overview of efforts to stabilize these phases and create monodomain structures, highlighting the complex relationship between geometrical confinement, induced curvature, and the structural stability and photonic features of blue phases. Understanding the coupling effects of physical and mechanical forces on the structural stability of these systems is crucial for the development of efficient and practical devices based on blue phase liquid crystals.