Decoupling of the Ericksen-Leslie equations

Mottram, Nigel and Pinto, J.T. and McKay, Geoffrey (2013) Decoupling of the Ericksen-Leslie equations. Liquid Crystals, 40 (6). pp. 787-798. ISSN 0267-8292 (https://doi.org/10.1080/02678292.2013.783134)

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Abstract

In this article we show how it is possible to decouple the Ericksen-Leslie equations, thereby allowing us to derive a dynamic equation for the director in which the flow velocity is absent. The flow itself can then be expressed as a function of the director orientation profile. Using this approach, we examine the Freedericksz transition of a nematic liquid crystal and solve the corresponding decoupled dynamic equation numerically. We show how our model still predicts the reduction of the effective viscosity and backflow. More significantly, while kickback is also present, we demonstrate how kick-back can be avoided by an appropriate choice of applied voltage during the switch-on process.

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