Nickel nanoparticles doped ferroelectric liquid crystal composites

With the advance of nanoparticles-liquid crystal composites, it became increasingly interesting to measure the various physical parameters, preferably near the transition temperature. In this research work, fine nickel nanoparticles with 2–8 nm size distribution were synthesized by chemical reduction of nickel hydrazine complex in aqueous solution at 60 °C. A small concentration of 0.5 wt.% of nickel nanoparticles dispersed in a novel ferroelectric liquid crystal mixture showed improved transmittance and fast switching response. Moreover, nickel addition indicates a slight increase in the conductivity of the ferroelectric sample. These studies indicate the occurrence of strong dipole interactions between metallic nanoparticles and ferroelectric liquid crystal molecules in the presence of applied electric field.

► Nickel nanoparticles of size 2–8 nm were synthesized and dispersed in a ferroelectric liquid crystal matrix. ► We examine changes in the electrical behaviour of the Ni-FLC composites. ► A decrease in the switching response was depicted with Ni Addition. ► Zig-Zag defects were removed in Ni-FLC composite system.