Theory of Chiral Imprinting

Abstract

We present a continuum model for a nematic elastomer network formed in a chiral environment, for instance in the presence of a chiral solvent. When this environment is removed, the network can retain some memory of its chiral genesis. We predict the residual chiral order parameter for a number of possible scenarios, and go on to examine the robustness (stability) of the imprinted chirality. We show that a twist-untwist transition can take place, which determines whether the imprinting has been successful. A transition is via a coarsening of the helical director pattern and a lengthening of its pitch. Finally, the effect due to a subsequent swelling by an achiral solvent, or by a solvent of differing chirality, is considered.