Topology and geometry of nematic braids

Topological analysis of disclinations in nematic liquid crystals is an interesting and diverse topic that goes from strict mathematical theorems to applications in elaborate systems found in experiments and numerical simulations. The theory of nematic disdinations is shown from both the geometric and topological perspectives. Entangled disclination line networks are analyzed based on their shape and the behavior of their cross section. Methods of differential geometry are applied to derive topological results from reduced geometric information. For nematic braids, systems of -1/2 disclination loops, created by inclusion of homeotropic colloidal particles, a formalism of rewiring is constructed, allowing comparison and construction of an entire set of different conformations. The disclination lines are described as ribbons and a new topological invariant, the self-linking number, is introduced. The analysis is generalized from a constant -1/2 profile to general profile variations, while retaining the geometric treatment. The workings of presented topological statements are demonstrated on simple models of entangled nematic colloids, estimating the margins of theoretical assumptions made in the formal derivations, and reviewing the behavior of the disclinations not only under topological, but also under free-energy driven constraints. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.