Tailoring surface patterns to direct the assembly of liquid crystalline materials

Molecular ordering and the defect structures of a material play essential roles in its function and performance. Controlling molecular alignment and topological defects has been a cornerstone in the field of liquid crystalline (LC) materials. Here, we present an overview of different methods to tailor surface chemistry and surface topography in order to direct the assemblies of LCs, leading to complex morphologies of topological defects. We detail various top-down patterning techniques in specific LC systems, including small molecule nematic and smectic LCs, and LC polymers (LCPs), and their roles in discoveries of new phenomena, new materials, and new applications. We close the review with a prospective on the potential impact of the LC patterning efforts to fundamental understanding, advancement of new materials and new phenomena, and potential technological applications.