Quantum dot self-assembly in liquid crystal media

In recent years the dispersion and directed assembly of nano-particles in liquid crystal media has proved an interesting field for investigation and one that may yield new hybrid materials for optical applications and fundamental research. In this paper, we investigate the dispersion of quantum dots in different liquid crystal phases, looking at aggregation and pattern formation. Quantum dot self-assembly in liquid crystals is dependent on particle surface properties and concentration in the liquid crystal medium. By varying these parameters we observe some fascinating structures and phase behavior using polarized optical microscopy and fluorescence microscopy.