Liquid Crystal Emulsions: A Versatile Platform for Photonics, Sensing, and Active Matter.

Abstract

The self-assembly of liquid crystals (LCs) is a fascinating method for controlling the organization of discrete molecules into nanostructured functional materials. Although LCs are traditionally processed in thin film, their confinement within micrometre-sized droplets has recently revealed new properties and functions for the design of next-generation soft responsive materials. These recent findings have enabled a wealth of unprecedented applications in photonics (e.g., reflectors, lasing materials), sensing (e.g., detection of biomolecules, pathogens), soft robotics (e.g., micropumps, artificial muscles), and beyond. This minireview focuses on recent developments in the design of LC emulsions and highlights a variety of novel potential applications. We also offer perspectives on the opportunities and new directions towards the implementation of LC emulsions in future innovative technologies.