Elastomeric Nematic Colloids, Colloidal Crystals and Microstructures with Complex Topology

摘要: Control of physical behaviors nematic colloids and colloidal crystals has been demonstrated by tuning particle shape, topology, chirality surface charging. However, the capability altering such soft matter systems changing shape ensuing responses to external stimuli remained elusive. We fabricated genus-one elastomeric ring-shaped particles various microstructures using two-photon photopolymerization. Nematic ordering within both nano-printed surrounding medium leads anisotropic actuation when heated. With thermal control, are capable from genus-zero topology. Using these as building blocks, we investigated immersed a liquid crystal fluid, which exhibit crystallographic symmetry transformations. Our findings may lead responsive large variety stimuli, including electric fields light. Pre-designed response colloids, changes topology lattice symmetry, interest for fundamental research applications.