In a previous paper,1we proposed an optofluidic modulator based on peristaltic flow. A microchannel made of polydimethylsiloxane is filled with nematic liquid crystal molecules that align homeotropically in the steady state. Once we apply a periodic peristaltic flow through mechanical deformation of the channel, liquid crystal molecules tend to realign with the gradient velocity field and thus change their optical properties. In this paper, we focus on the channel deformation with the finite elements program Comsol®, and we highlight the limitations in frequency of such optofluidic components. © World Scientific Publishing Company.
Light modulation enabled by liquid crystal microflows / Cuennet, J. G.; Vasdekis, A. E.; De Sio, L.; Psaltis, D.. - In: JOURNAL OF NONLINEAR OPTICAL PHYSICS AND MATERIALS. - ISSN 0218-8635. - 20:4(2011), pp. 397-404. [10.1142/S0218863511006303]
Light modulation enabled by liquid crystal microflows
De Sio, L.;
2011
Abstract
In a previous paper,1we proposed an optofluidic modulator based on peristaltic flow. A microchannel made of polydimethylsiloxane is filled with nematic liquid crystal molecules that align homeotropically in the steady state. Once we apply a periodic peristaltic flow through mechanical deformation of the channel, liquid crystal molecules tend to realign with the gradient velocity field and thus change their optical properties. In this paper, we focus on the channel deformation with the finite elements program Comsol®, and we highlight the limitations in frequency of such optofluidic components. © World Scientific Publishing Company.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
