Smectic Pores and Defect Cores
arXiv:1110.0664
Abstract
Riemann's minimal surfaces are a complete, embeddable, one-parameter family of minimal surfaces with translational symmetry along one direction. It's infinite number of planar ends are joined together by an array of necks, closely matching the morphology of a bicontinuous, lamellar system with pores connecting alternating layers. We demonstrate explicitly that Riemann's minimal surfaces are composed of a nonlinear sum of two oppositely-handed helicoids. This description is particularly appropriate for describing smectic liquid crystals containing two screw dislocations.
6 pages, 4 figures, Geometry of Interfaces Oct 2011, Primosten, Croatia