High-Performance Infrared Liquid Crystals

Cornerstone Research Group, Inc. (CRG) proposes to synthesize, formulate, and characterize novel high performance liquid crystal material systems for use in enhanced performance active or passive infrared (IR) modulators and filtering devices, such as IR laser protective filters, liquid crystal light valves, and optical phased arrays for infrared beam steering. Enhancements in electro-optic response time and reduced threshold voltage will succeed using a molecular design producing very high dielectric anisotropy, high birefringence, and low viscosity while providing reduced infrared absorption. The optimization of an electro-optic IR device using current materials is challenging and typically involves making trade-offs in the desired properties. CRG's design will yield liquid crystal materials and dopants offering enhancements in desired properties such as birefringence while reducing the customary trade-offs associated with current materials.