Ferroelectric and dielectric studies of a ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC) dispersed ferroelectric nanoparticles (NPs): Impact of NP dispersions on the rotational viscoelastic properties of the FLC

This study focuses on the effects of dispersing tin thiohypodiphosphate ferroelectric nanoparticles (Sn 2 P 2 S 6 ) on the structural, ferroelectric, and dielectric properties of a ferroelectric liquid crystal (SmC*) phase. Our findings show that nanoparticle dispersion leads to modifications in phase transition temperatures, spontaneous polarization, and dielectric relaxation modes associated with ferroelectricity. These effects are attributed to changes in the viscoelastic parameters of the SmC* phase. Two concentration regimes were identified: at low concentrations, nanoparticles are well-dispersed, introducing local defects in the smectic layers and distortions in the helical structure, thereby enhancing the viscoelastic properties of the FLC. At higher concentrations, aggregation of nanoparticles reduces the dispersion effects, and the nanocomposite behavior tends to resemble that of the pure liquid crystal.