Defect dynamics in a smectic Grandjean-Cano wedge
Abstract
An array of edge dislocation forms spontaneously in a Grandjean-Cano wedge filled by a smectic liquid crystal. In the vicinity of the smectic A to smectic C transition, these defects are visible under the microscope [R. B. Meyer, B. Stebler, and S. T. Lagerwall, Phys. Rev. Lett. 41, 1393 (1978)]. This paper deals with their dynamics under controlled deformation (dilation and compression). First, we characterize several regimes of dislocation mobility occurring with increasing strain ɛ or strain rate ɛ˙. We relate these regimes to the interactions between screw and edge dislocations. We also show that screw dislocations give rise to loops of edge dislocations under sufficient strain, which strengthens the model of loop nucleation by helical instability of screw dislocations. Lastly, we discuss several models for the microscopic origin of the interactions between defects.
- Publication:
-
Physical Review E
- Pub Date:
- January 2004
- DOI:
- 10.1103/PhysRevE.69.011705
- Bibcode:
- 2004PhRvE..69a1705B
- Keywords:
-
- 61.30.Jf;
- 46.35.+z;
- 61.72.Ff;
- 61.72.Lk;
- Defects in liquid crystals;
- Viscoelasticity plasticity viscoplasticity;
- Direct observation of dislocations and other defects;
- Linear defects: dislocations disclinations