Carbon based nanomaterials as efficient dopants for tailoring alignment and electro-optical performance of liquid crystals

Abstract The growing demand for energy-efficient displays, adaptive photonic elements, and low-power optical technologies has build up interest in carbon nanomaterials dispersed liquid crystal (LC) systems. These nanomaterials offer unique electrical, optical and interfacial properties that can significantly make advancement for faster, more responsive and more sustainable electro-optical (EO) devices. This review provides a comprehensive overview of how various carbon nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene oxide (GO), carbon dots (CDs) and fullerenes interact with LCs to influence alignment behavior, dielectric response, interfacial anchoring and device performance. The manuscript presents trends, compares advantages and limitations of each nanomaterial category as well as explains the underlying mechanisms governing their influence on LC order and switching characteristics. Key challenges related to dispersion stability, interface control and long-term reliability are highlighted, along with future opportunities for developing next-generation LC-based photonic and optoelectronic systems. This perspective is intended to guide material selection and inspire further innovation in LC–nanomaterial hybrid technologies.