Materials available from the NLCMF are listed below, organized according to research group where they were first developed. Each box contains a brief description of the materials, and a link to more detailed information about the material as well as material synthesis procedures. For groups with more than one material available, multiple links are listed. New materials are added when available, if you are interested in a material that is currently not available, please contact us, as the material may still be available.
Nematic LCE films incorporating a azo-benzene moiety making them photo-responsive to UV and visible light. Available as ~1cm x 1cm films
These bio-organic elastomers are made from a cellulose derivative. They are prepared in 1cm x 18cm strips.
Ferroelectric smectic LCE films that are switchable under an electric field, available as ~ 1cm x 1cm films
Free standing nematic liquid crystalline gels. These switchable films are available in approximately 1cm x 1cm films
These nanorods have an aspect ratio between 2 and 5, with a diameter between 10 to 20 nm. The rods are coated with the surfactant CTAB
Nematic LCE based upon a 6CB derivative, ideal for investigating elastomer swelling behavior and director orientation. Available as ~ 1cm x 1cm films
Clear LCE film that swell or contract when exposed to certain solvent vapors
A variety of different types of LCE developed at Prof. Finkelmann's lab are available, including:
