Pyroelectric detection with smectic liquid crystals

The potential of ferroelectric liquid crystals for application as pyroelectric infrared detectors is examined. The liquid crystals studied belong to a family of biphenyl and phenylbenzoate esters. It is found that even within this first liquid-crystal family examined, the materials figure of merit c...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of applied physics 1986-10, Vol.60 (8), p.2778-2782
Main Authors: GLASS, A. M, PATEL, J. S, GOODBY, J. W, OLSON, D. H, GEARY, J. M
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Condensed matter: electronic structure, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties
Dielectrics, piezoelectrics, and ferroelectrics and their properties
Exact sciences and technology
Physics
Pyroelectric and electrocaloric effects
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Summary:The potential of ferroelectric liquid crystals for application as pyroelectric infrared detectors is examined. The liquid crystals studied belong to a family of biphenyl and phenylbenzoate esters. It is found that even within this first liquid-crystal family examined, the materials figure of merit compares well with ferroelectric solid materials commonly used for infrared detection and imaging. Because they permit very simple and flexible device design, liquid crystals are attractive candidates for these applications. However, for low-frequency applications, attention must be paid to the reduction of thermal loading by the cell walls.
ISSN:0021-8979
1089-7550
DOI:10.1063/1.337111