Integer defects in active nematics of ellipsoidal Quincke rollers

Abstract

Transverse propulsion changes topological ordering in dense ellipsoidal Quincke rollers. Under an alternating-current electric field, a polar velocity field coexists with perpendicular nematic particle alignment. The system supports integer +1 velocity vortices with radial particle axes and -1 saddle defects. Oppositely charged defects migrate along domain walls and annihilate as polar domains merge. These results identify propulsion direction relative to particle shape as a control parameter for defect textures and collective ordering.

arXiv comment5 pages, 4 figures