Numerical Methods in Studies of Liquid Crystal Elastomers

Abstract

Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are a type of material with specific features of polymers and of liquid crystals. They exhibit interesting behaviors, i.e., they are able to change their physical properties when met with external stimuli, including heat, light, electric, and magnetic fields. This behavior makes LCEs a suitable candidate for a variety of applications, including, but not limited to, artificial muscles, optical devices, microscopy and imaging systems, biosensor devices, and optimization of solar energy collectors. Due to the wide range of applicability, numerical models are needed not only to further our understanding of the underlining mechanics governing LCE behavior, but also to enable the predictive modeling of their behavior under different circumstances for different applications. Given that several mainstream methods are used for LCE modeling, viz. finite element method, Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics, and the growing interest and reliance on computer modeling for predicting the opto-mechanical behavior of complex structures in real world applications, there is a need to gain a better understanding regarding their strengths and weaknesses so that the best method can be utilized for the specific application at hand. Therefore, this investigation aims to not only to present a multitude of examples on numerical studies conducted on LCEs, but also attempts at offering a concise categorization of different methods based on the desired application to act as a guide for current and future research in this field.

Liquid crystal-based actuators

“…However, theoretical and computer models, which quantitively describe the relation between stimulus and/or material parameters and the induced deformations, are being developed to facilitate the development of programable LCN devices. The recent overview of the results in this research direction can be found in (Soltani et al, 2021).…”

Multiscale Phase Behaviors of Nematic Solids: A Short Review

“…Note that the present investigation consists primarily in discussing multiscale modeling techniques, and only a limited number of works are addressed when they concern each individual physical phenomenon. Interested readers are kindly referred to a more comprehensive review of numerical methods of liquid crystal polymers [48].…”

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