Stability of a block-copolymer lamella in a strong electric field

Using self-consistent field theory, we examine the stability of a lamellar layer of diblock copolymer subject to strong orthogonal electric fields. Two competing instabilities are identified; one is a peristaltic mode that leads to perpendicular lamellae, and the other is an undulatory mode that results in the formation of an undesirable grain boundary. The former kinetic pathway is favored when the central domain is relatively thin and composed of the low-dielectric material.