Biological & Soft Matter Seminar: Tutorial Talk - Introduction to liquid crystals

Zoom: https://tau-ac-il.zoom.us/j/88904888353?pwd=dDIwaXRxSjlsVElkR0dXdTNPTGhnZz09

Abstract: 

This two-hour tutorial will overview fundamental science and technological applications of liquid crystals. It will start with introducing and classifying liquid crystals as a distinct type of soft condensed matter. The lecture will overview theories describing phase transitions in liquid crystals as well as the different physical mechanisms that lead to liquid crystallinity in both synthetic and bioderived liquid crystalline materials. The lecture will then discuss the fundamental properties of liquid crystals as well as their widespread technological applications. The main goal is to enable the students and researchers working at the forefront of optics, engineering, and materials science to better understand and more successfully utilize liquid crystals and liquid crystal devices in their own research and applications. Many practical examples will be included throughout the course, ranging from fundamental model systems like “cosmology in laboratory experiments” to technological applications in displays, beam steering, telecommunications, tunable photonic crystals, nano-science, biodetection, drug delivery, energy harvesting and control. The attendees will become fluent with what liquid crystals are and how to use them. This tutorial is intended for anyone who is interested in learning the fundamentals and applications of liquid crystals, including students, postdoctoral fellows, faculty members and engineers.