Comparisons between homogeneous and homeotropic SSCT

Abstract

We have demonstrated SSCT (Surface Stabilized Cholesteric Textures) with homogeneous and homeotropic alignments. Both alignments can stabilize the planar texture and the focal conic texture of cholesteric liquid crystals. We compared the optical performance of the high-pretilt homogeneous SSCT with that of the homeotropic SSCT and found that the homogeneous SSCT can have more uniform coloration over very wide viewing angles, but with a smaller contrast ratio. The contrast ratios for both SSCT are greater than 5, which can be used in such applications as electronic newspapers and PDA.