9704384 Shen The focus of this research project on optics in liquid crystals falls into two general areas: studies of novel optical phenomena in liquid crystals, and use of novel optical techniques to study liquid crystals. Nonlinear optical effects to be studied include laser-induced polarization, dye- enhanced nonlinearity, and stimulated Raman scattering emphasizing surface and interfacial properties, and surface-induced bulk alignment effects. %%% These studies are aimed at enhancing our knowledge of the many unique and interesting ways that liquid crystals interact with laser light. These discoveries will that help in the search for novel applications of liquid crystals as extraordinary materials for modern optoelectronic applications such as display, memory, and sensor devices. ***
