Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods of using a lyotropic liquid crystal to detect protein structure; devices that can perform those methods described herein; and compositions that include a biospecimen and a composition that includes a birefringent small molecule or a birefringent polyaramide, where the birefringent small molecule and/or polyaramide coating solution exhibit a lyotropic liquid crystal phase.

Abstract: Colloids include a polyaramide and conductive materials, wavelength-converting materials, and/or light diffusing material. The colloid can be coated and optionally aligned on a substrate to form a film, and the film can be removed from the substrate to form a standalone film.

Abstract: Provided are methods of depositing polymer solutions on substrates to form various optical elements. A polymer solution may include about 0.1%-30% by weight of a specific polymer having rigid rod-like molecules. The molecules may include various cores, spacers, and sides groups to ensure their solubility, viscosity, and cross-linking ability. The deposition techniques may include slot die, spray, molding, roll coating, and so forth. Pre-deposition techniques may be used to improve wettability and adhesion of substrates. Post-deposition techniques may include ultraviolet cross-linking, specific drying techniques, evaporation of solvent, treating with salt solutions, and shaping. The disclosed polymers and deposition processes may yield optical elements with high refractive index values, such as greater than 1.6. These optical elements may be used as +A plates, ?C plates, or biaxial polymers and used as retarders in LCD active panels or as light collimators and light guides.

Abstract: An organic polymer solution may include about 0.1%-30% by weight of a specific polymer having rigid rod-like molecules. These molecules may include various cores, spacers, and sides groups to ensure their solubility, viscosity, and cross-linking ability. The rigid rod-like molecules are selected in such a way that they form self-assembling structures in the polymer solution, which makes it a lyotropic liquid crystal. The organic polymer solution, when properly deposited on a substrate and dried to remove solvents, forms a solid optical retardation layer of positive A-type substantially transparent to electromagnetic radiation in the visible spectral range.

Abstract: Provided are methods of depositing polymer solutions on substrates to form various optical elements. A polymer solution may include about 0.1%-0% by weight of a specific polymer having rigid rod-like molecules. The molecules may include various cores, spacers, and sides groups to ensure their solubility, viscosity, and cross-linking ability. The deposition techniques may include slot die, spray, molding, roll coating, and so forth. Pre-deposition techniques may be used to improve wettability and adhesion of substrates. Post-deposition techniques may include ultraviolet cross-linking, specific drying techniques, evaporation of solvent, treating with salt solutions, and shaping. The disclosed polymers and deposition processes may yield optical elements with high refractive index values, such as greater than 1.6. These optical elements may be used as +A plates, ?C plates, or biaxial polymers and used as retarders in LCD active panels or as light collimators and light guides.