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arXiv · 2509.05965

Tensorial Model of Chiral Smectic C Liquid Crystals

Jingmin Xia·Jinbing Wu·Yucen Han
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Abstract

We propose a continuum tensorial model for chiral smectic C (SmC$^*$) liquid crystals using a tensor-valued order parameter $\mathbf{Q}$ to describe orientational order and a real-valued order parameter $\delta\rho$ to capture layer modulation. This model accounts for the coupled effects of nematic alignment, smectic layering, chirality and spontaneous polarisation inherent in SmC$^*$ systems. The model is validated through a series of numerical experiments -- helix, bistable switching, bookshelf and chevron, and defect in SmC$^*$. Our results highlight the model's capability to describe complex phenomena in SmC$^*$ liquid crystals, providing a robust foundation for further theoretical and applied studies on phase transitions.

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Jingmin Xia, Jinbing Wu, Yucen Han. 2025-09-07. Tensorial Model of Chiral Smectic C Liquid Crystals. https://arxiv.org/abs/2509.05965

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