Electrostatics and the electro-optic behaviour of chiral smectics C: 'block' polarization screening of applied voltage and 'V-shaped' switching

We present a new model for the physics of thresholdless switching in chiral smectics. In the limit of high polarization, the electro-optics of chiral smectic C liquid crystals are dominated by two distinct electrostatic effects. Complete (surface to surface) 'stiffening' of the polarization field by its charge self-interaction causes the polarization to orient as a uniform block. Complete screening of applied electric field by polarization charge leads to voltage-induced orientation where the electric field in the liquid crystal is exactly zero. These effects, both operative during the 'V-shaped' portion of thresholdless transmission vs. voltage curves, combine to produce 'V-shaped' switching.