Alignment behavior of Polysilane Film Mixed with Liquid Crystal Molecule on Rubbed Polymer Surface

Abstract

The mixed film of a poly(dihexylsilane) (PDHS) with liquid crystal (LC) molecules were prepared by spin-casting of a mixed solution. PDHS was miscible with LC molecules without phase separation to a certain ratio as revealed by DSC analysis and polarized microscope. The PDHS backbone and LC molecule in the mixed film were aligned parallel to the rubbing direction on the rubbed poly(vinyl alcohol) surface as indicated by polarized UV absorption measurements. The order parameter of PDHS backbone in the mixed film was dependent on film thickness. The thinner films gave the better alignment of PDHS main chain. The alignment of PDHS in the mixed fltm with some LC molecules was improved by annealing at 60℃.