Two-dimensional nematics in bulk and confined geometries

TL;DR

This paper reviews the properties of two-dimensional nematics, combining density-functional theory and simulations to explore bulk phases, surface adsorption, confinement effects, and defect structures in various geometries.

Contribution

It presents a comprehensive analysis of 2D nematics using density-functional theory and preliminary Monte Carlo simulations, focusing on confined geometries and defect properties.

Findings

Identification of stable bulk phases and phase diagrams.

Insights into adsorption and confinement effects.

Initial simulation results on defect structures in circular cavities.

Abstract

Two-dimensional nematics possess peculiar properties that have been studied recently using computer simulation and various theoretical models. Here we review our own contribution to the field using density-functional theory, and present some preliminary simulation results on confined two-dimensional nematics. First we discuss the possible stable bulk phases and phase diagrams and the relation between phases and particle geometry. We then explore the adsorption properties on a single substrate and the confinement effects that arise when the fluid is confined between parallel walls. Next, confinement in circular cavities is presented; this geometry allows us to measure some properties of the simplest defects that arise in two-dimensional nematics. Finally, preliminary Monte Carlo simulation results of confined nematics in circular geometry are shown.