Azimuthal anchoring measurement of nematic liquid crystals using the strong magnetic field

We would like to show a measuring technique of azimuthal anchoring energy of the nematic liquid crystals. The electro-optical setup of liquid crystal cell, crossed polarizers and magnetic field was assumed. The planar or hybrid alignment cells were prepared. The director in the light entering substrate and the polarization of light was adjusted into parallel to the magnetic field. The director orientation of exit substrate and analyser maintained perpendicular to the magnetic field. As the magnetic field strength is increased, the director deviates from the easy axis and rotates to the field direction. We obtained an equation calculating the change of transmission with the field and measured experimentally the transmission. By comparing the calculating and experimental data, we obtained the azimuthal anchoring strength.