Hysteresis upon light-induced hydrodynamic reorientation of the director of a nematic liquid crystal

Oscillations and hysteresis in the behaviour of the director of a nematic liquid crystal were observed upon its light-induced hydrodynamic reorientation caused by direct volume expansion. The light propagated through the liquid crystal placed between crossed polarisers provides the feedback. This light falls back on the liquid crystal and is absorbed by producing the volume expansion. A theory is suggested that describes the observed behaviour of the director of the nematic liquid crystal.