Surface-induced polarization at a chiral-nematic–substrate interface

A novel linear electro-optic effect is observed in a surface-stabilized chiral nematic cell above the Fr\'eedericksz transition threshold field. The slow dynamic response indicates that this effect arises from the interfacial region which elastically couples to the bulk, rather than directly from the bulk. Moreover, evidence suggests that the primary effect is a spontaneous electric polarization very near the interface. Other possible contributions to this effect are discussed.