Dynamic Features of Topological Defects in Active Liquid Crystals

Explore the dynamic features of topological defects in active liquid crystals through this 28-minute conference talk by Rui Zhang from PCS Institute for Basic Science. Delve into the potential applications of topological defects in liquid crystals for directing self-assembly and serving as micro reactors. Examine the unique properties of active liquid crystals, including bacteria-LC composites, certain tissues, and dense biopolymer suspensions, where topological defects can self-propel. Discover current understanding of active defect dynamics and methods to manipulate their nucleation and trajectories. Learn about the effects of topological confinement, activity patterning, and temperature gradient on defect dynamics and hydrodynamic flows. Investigate how controlled defect motion and spontaneous flows can be utilized for information transmission and logic operations, opening possibilities for designing LC-based autonomous materials systems. The talk covers introduction to liquid crystal defects, simulation frameworks, theoretical predictions, experimental comparisons, spheroid drop behavior, defect trajectories, rigid body rotation, defect guidance, microtubule dynamics, local active forces, active defects, deformation, and concludes with a question session.