Influence of the saddle-splay term on nematic liquid crystals confined between two coaxial cylinders

A theoretical study of saddle-splay term on nematic liquid crystal confined between two coaxial cylinders elucidates director configurations. By solving the numerical solution of Euler–Lagrange equation based on Frank elastic theory and finite-difference iterative method, the effect of saddle-splay term on cylindrical system have been discussed explicitly. We investigate the spontaneous deformation by saddle-splay term K ₂₄ in the weak axial anchoring conditions. And we compare the effect of the twist elastic constant K ₂₂ on director distortion to the influence of saddle-splay term K ₂₄ in the twist anchoring conditions. Finally, we calculate the critical radius ratio and the critical twist elastic constant in the planar anchoring conditions, in which the spontaneous deformation occurs. (paper)