23.4: Electro-Optic Properties of Ferroelectric Nanoparticle / Liquid Crystal Dispersions

We enhance the electro-optic performance of liquid crystals by dispersing ferroelectric nanoparticles. Devices using these dispersions have lower driving voltages, faster switching speeds and higher contrast ratios. These changes are caused by increases in the dielectric anisotropy, birefringence and elastic constants and can be used to produce improved displays.