Enhancing Liquid Crystal Properties through Nanoparticle Doping: A Mini Review

Abstract

Liquid crystals doped with nanoscale particles have recently acquired popularity, improving their capabilities and applications. The impact of doping metallic and metal-oxide nanoparticles as well as other nanoparticles in liquid crystals is presented in this brief review. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) have an effect on phase transitions, molecular alignment and electrical properties such as threshold voltage and response time. The optical tilt and electro-optical characteristics of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) are improved. Metal-oxide nanoparticles such as MgO, ZnO, Al2O3, CuO and SiO2 enhance dielectric properties, mitigate screening effects, increase birefringence, and reduce light leakage. Doping carbon nanotubes (CNTs) influences impedance, optical transmittance and electro-optical properties. The review aims to study the effects of nanoparticle doping on liquid crystal features such as phase transitions, molecular alignment, electrical and optical properties, dielectric behavior, and impedance. A better understanding of these modifications can lead to more applications for liquid crystal in areas such as sensors, displays, optoelectronics, and photovoltaics.