Backflow in flexoelectric nematic layers deformed by electric field

Abstract

Coupling between director reorientation and flow appearing in nematic layers during arising and decay of electric field-induced deformations, known as backflow, was analysed numerically. Nematics possessing flexoelectric properties, in which the converse flexoelectric effect occurred, were considered. The velocity of the nematic liquid, as well as the director orientation angle, was calculated as functions of time and coordinate in the layer after applying a voltage step, as well as by switching off the voltage. Homeotropic and planar layers were taken into account. Several distinct forms of the backflow were found which differ from those observed for the non-flexoelectric nematic. Correlations between the flow patterns and the director distributions were determined.