Liquid Crystal Alignment Effects using a Diamond-like Carbon Thin Film

Abstract

We studied the nematic liquid crystal (NLC) aligning capabilities using the new alignment material of a diamond like carbon (DLC) thin film. A high pretilt angle of about $3.5^{\circ}$ by ion beam(IB) exposure on the DLC thin film surface was measured. A good LC alignment by the IB alignment method on the DLC thin film surface was observed at annealing temperature of $200^{\circ}C$, and the alignment defect of the NLC was observed above annealing temperature of $220^{\circ}C$. Consequently, the high NLC pretilt angle and the good thermal stability of LC alignment by the IB alignment method on the DLC thin film surface can be achieved.