Open AccessCoherent backscattering and dynamical light localization in liquid crystals driven throughout chaotic regimes
Author(s) -
Francesco Carbone,
Antonio De Luca,
V. Barna,
Sameh Ferjani,
Carlo Vena,
C. Versace,
Giuseppe Strangi
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.17.013435
Subject(s) - coherent backscattering , chaotic scattering , scattering , physics , optics , chaotic , light scattering , electric field , anisotropy , anderson localization , condensed matter physics , quantum mechanics , artificial intelligence , computer science
An important effect of dynamical localization of light waves in liquid crystal electro-hydrodynamic instabilities is reported by investigating coherent backscattering effects. Recurrent multiple scattering in dynamic and chaotic complex fluids lead to a cone of enhanced backscattered light. The cone width and the related mean free path dependence on the dynamic scattering regimes emphasize the diverse light localization scales related to the internal structures present in the sample. The systems investigated up to now were mainly nano-powdered solutions or biological tissues, without any external control on the disorder. Here, an anisotropic complex fluid is "driven" throughout chaotic regimes by an external electric field, giving rise to dynamics that evolve through several spatio-temporal patterns.