Lyotropic nematic mesophases: peculiarities of singularities and inversion walls in specific and non-specific extures

Abstract

Peculiarities of various defects and disclinations in specific and non-specific textures of the optically uniaxial and biaxial lyotropic nematic mesophases were investigated. Sodium dodecylsulphate (SDS) [sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS)] /water/1-decanol lyotropic liquid crystalline system was used. The specific and magnetically induced textures were studied. The optical signs and the disclination of strength of various singularities were determined. The optical mappings and schematic configurations around the disclination lines, inversion walls and singular points, taking place in textures of lyotropic nematic mesophases, are presented in this work.