Liquid-crystal photoalignment using low-molecular-weight photo-cross-linkable composites

A liquid-crystal (LC) photoalignment method, based on the use of low-molecu lar-weight photo-cross-linkable (LMWPC) composites is proposed. The basic i dea of this method is that cross linking or both cross linking and polymeri zation of LMWPC composites are realized immediately on the substrate simult aneously with the photoalignment or as a stage of the backing process. Prov iding the advantages of a conventional photoalignment method, the use of LM WPC composites simplifies the synthesis and alignment procedure, makes poss ible wide range control of pretilt angles, and enhances the thermal stabili ty of the LC alignment. The abilities of this method are demonstrated using a series of cinnamate-containing monomers. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physics.