LCD alignment layers. Controlling nematic domain properties†
Abstract
From simple pocket calculators, to mobile telephones and LCD-TV, over the past few decades devices based on liquid crystal display technology have proliferated into just about all conceivable aspects of everyday life. Although used in cutting-edge technology, it is surprising that a vital part in the construction of such displays relies essentially on a process invented almost 100 years ago. This essential part, the alignment layer, dictates the macroscopic uniform alignment of liquid crystalline molecules (mesogens) near its surface. The current method for manufacturing such layers is the mechanical rubbing of spin-coated