Fractal Patterns in Burned Hele-Shaw Cells of Liquid Crystals and Oils

Abstract

Fractal patterns in burned Hele-Shaw cells of nematic MBBA and mineral oil are observed when the DC or AC voltage across the cell increases beyond a threshold value. Each pattern consists of continuous strings etched on the plates, which can be thin and smooth, or thick and wrinkled. The two types may connect to each other in the same string. The overall pattern depends sensitively on the cell thickness, and whether DC or AC is used. Fractal dimensions of some of these patterns are calculated.