Light propagation in cholesteric liquid crystals in a domain including inversion range

Abstract

Light propagation in cholesteric Liquid-Crystals near inversion range is studied in prismatic cells, the direction of propagation being that of helicoidal axis, or making small angle with this axis. Experimental results, both for indices and for polarisation agree with recent developments of De Vries theory. Moreover direct measures of apparent rotatory power, show anomalies (variation with sample thickness) justified by theory. Finally we give theoretical justification of the selective reflection by cholesteric liquid crystals.