Spreading of smectic-A droplets: Structure and dynamics of terraces
Abstract
The spreading of smectic-A droplets on a smooth, high-energy surface has been studied using x-ray reflectivity, ellipsometry, and video imaging at the Brewster angle. These droplets have a layered structure and terraces are evidenced. The dynamics of expansion or retraction of these terraces are investigated and compared with recent theoretical predictions. In a last stage, holes open in the single remaining terrace and their growth ultimately leads to a complete breaking up of the terrace. The nematic and isotropic phases dewet the first terrace, and holes also appear in the layer by raising the temperature above the smectic domain.
- Publication:
-
Physical Review A
- Pub Date:
- November 1992
- DOI:
- 10.1103/PhysRevA.46.R6158
- Bibcode:
- 1992PhRvA..46.6158D
- Keywords:
-
- 68.15.+e;
- 61.30.-v;
- 68.10.-m;
- Liquid thin films;
- Liquid crystals