On the Threshold of Mechanical Freedericksz Transition in the Liquid Crystalline Elastomer

Abstract

The study of the threshold mechanical transition of Freedericksz is presented for the first time, taking into account the nonlinearity of the interaction of orientational and mechanical anisotropy, using weakly crosslinked nematic elastomers with side chains as an example. The reorientation of the director of the liquid crystal elastomer has a threshold character in cases where the mechanical stress is applied perpendicular to the initial orientation of the liquid crystal director. The threshold of reorientation of the liquid crystal molecules is analytically calculated. The experimental implementation of the proposed approach will allow us to determine one of the coefficients of nonlinear interaction.