2a07 Uniform homeotropic alignment of nematic liquid crystals on a metallic nanohole array by vapor phase deposition of silane-coupling agent

Abstract

One of the challenges in metamaterial research is to make them tunable so as to enable on-demand switching of their properties. Although liquid crystals are attractive candidates as tunable materials, an important issue which needs to be addressed is the alignment of liquid crystals on nanostructured surfaces: non-uniform or multi-stable alignment of liquid crystals can occur, deteriorating optical performance. In this study, we demonstrate uniform alignment control of nematic liquid crystals on a metallic nanohole array, and demonstrate tuning of optical properties through refractive index modulation. Our strategy for alignment control is based on vapor-phase deposition of a fluorosilane monolayer that induces alignment of liquid crystals.