Dislocation-loop theory of the nematic-smectic A-smectic C multicritical point

The results of a dislocation-loop theory of the nematic-smectic A-smectic C multicritical point are presented. A new, biaxial nematic phase is found to intervene between the nematic and smectic-C phases. These four phases meet at a decoupled tetracritical point. © 1983 The American Physical Society.