Deformational Characteristics of Anomalous Structure of Smectic Liquid Crystal Formed from Electroconvection State

Abstract

We have investigated deformational characteristics of anomalous structures in smectic phase formed from an electroconvection state in nematic phase under dc electric fields applied. Stepwise shear deformations were applied to the structure and the structure changes were observed with polarizing microscope. The shear-induced optical defect patterns were observed and it was considered that these may be focal conic domains. Moreover yield stresses and dynamic viscoelasticity of the structures were also measured before and after deformations and those mechanical property changes were discussed with the structure changes.