| Abstract: | We theoretically demonstrate that the application of a transverse next-to-static electric field to a planar nematic liquid crystal cell - obtained by strong planar anchoring of the liquid crystal on the first surface and negligible interaction with the second surface - causes an electro-reorientational transition of the Freedericksz kind. We show that, above the transition the cell behaves as a twisted nematic liquid crystal cell with total twist depending on the applied voltage. Preliminary experimental results confirming the predicted effect are presented. |
