Review of emergent polar liquid crystals from material aspects
Qian Liao, Satoshi Aya, Mingjun Huang
Abstract
The discovery of ferroelectric nematic liquid crystal is one of the most important breakthroughs in the entire soft matter field. The coupling of ferroelectricity and multiple order creates a rich library of polar liquid crystal matter states. Their fascinating physical and electro-optic properties bring huge excitement about the potential applications of these liquid-matter ferroelectrics in optoelectrical technologies. In this review, we systematically look back on these emergent polar liquid crystals from the material aspects. We summarize the molecular design guidelines for ferroelectric nematic and other polar phases, from small molecules to polymers and elastomers. We discuss the current understanding of characteristic physical and electro-optic effects, illustrating the latest technological developments. At the end, some critical challenges we consider important for future exploration are raised.