Sampling methods in time-resolved infrared spectroscopy of liquid crystal systems

Liquid crystal systems which undergo reorientation under the influence of an applied electric field are of great interest in terms of both applied systems, such as liquid crystal displays, and in model systems. Analysis of the molecular dynamics of these systems can be performed by step-scanning, time resolved spectroscopy (TRS). Typically, these liquid crystal systems are studied in simple transmission cells, which mimics the application in display units and gives information on the bulk reorientation of the system. However, using a modified ATR cell, information on the reorientation at the electrode surface can be studied. Here, we present the results of our studies on two liquid crystal systems, with details on the construction of transmission and ATR cells used for liquid crystal studies.