String Defects in Condensed Matter Systems as Optical Fibers

Abstract

We analyze the core structure of string defects in various condensed matter systems, such as nematic liquid crystals and superfluid helium, and argue that in certain cases the variation of the refractive index near the core is such that it can lead to total internal reflection of light travelling along the string core. These strings thus behave as optical fibers providing a qualitatively new approach to optical fibers. We present a candidate for such a fiber by looking at string segments in a thin nematic liquid crystal film on water. We discuss various possibilities for constructing such fibers as well as possible technological applications.