Progress in radiations induced engineering of liquid crystals properties for high-performance applications

• Published in: Physics reports 2023-05, Vol.1015, p.1-23
• Main Authors: Prakash, Jai, Varshney, Depanshu, Chauhan, Shikha, Kaushik, Ajeet, Mishra, Yogendra Kumar
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Advanced high-performance materials; Irradiation-based improved performance; Liquid crystals; Radiation-effects; Soft material
• ISSN: 0370-1573; 1873-6270
• DOI: 10.1016/j.physrep.2023.03.003

From the time of their revelation, liquid crystals (LCs) are stimulating scientific curiosity in the basic and applied research of these materials as they simultaneously encompass the several properties of liquid as well as crystalline phases. Even after developing various breakthrough technologies from the many facets of LC materials, a refinement of its various parameters is still a burgeoning necessity for their applications in modern technologies of display and non-display-based devices. In the same scenario, LC materials are also being developed concerning their response towards radiation as a part of research studies, radiation therapy, curing and imaging. However, the understanding of the behavior of LC materials under the radiation environment and the risk it poses on these materials is limited too. Therefore, it becomes important to review the field based on different studies for the sake of better understanding and future directions. Keeping this motivation into mind, the present review focuses on the variation of several leading parameters of LC materials governed by the irradiations of various doses. Along with it, we have systematically summarized the possible reasons followed by some analytical discussions behind the changes in different physical parameters after irradiation. Finally, we have briefly addressed the radiation-based cutting-edge applications of LC materials currently being used worldwide and some futuristic work that might be required to carry out the radiation-based study of emerging LC materials. The present review will be advantageous to provide new dimensions in the radiation-based study of emerging LC materials to researchers across the world. •Radiation effects on soft materials and applications based on that is highly appreciated.•Being extremely functional, liquid crystals are stimulating huge scientific curiosity.•Refinement of various parameters of liquid crystals is still an escalating necessity.•Understanding of radiation effects on liquid crystals is covered in the review.•The field is vastly recommended for better understanding and future directions.