Abstract
This review discusses some variations on the standard Maier–Saupe model which have been found to be useful for the understanding of main-chain and side-chain polymers. These models can be reduced to more general forms, providing a library of Maier–Saupe variants that may be applied to a wide range of thermotropic and lyotropic nematic liquid crystals and polymers. In addition, an adaptation of the Maier–Saupe model is proposed that includes a simplified excluded volume Onsager-like entropy term. This may allow a more quantitative evaluation of the importance of molecular shape on the temperature dependence of the <P2> orientational order parameter. Throughout this review some as yet unstudied problems are introduced that may provide the inspiration for further research.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
