Sub-hertz relaxation process in chiral smectic mixtures doped with silver nanoparticles

A thermal activated sub-hertz frequency dielectric absorption process in both SmC* and SmA* phases along with characteristic Goldstone mode have been observed in both pure and silver nano particle doped liquid crystal mixtures. This process is well resolved, in particular, in the composites probably due to capturing of ions/charges inside the thiol group layer around the silver particles surface, thereby increasing the resistivity of the composites. The process is interpreted as space charge accumulation of ions/charges at the interface between liquid crystals and the cell polymer layer close to the electrodes. Improved switching characteristics and reduced spontaneous polarization have been detected. (C) 2012 American Institute of Physics. [doi:10.1063/1.3685700]