Figure 2. The local order parameter and biaxiality.

(a) The local scalar order parameter in a polar coordinate system shows two disclination line defects that run parallel to the cylinder. The interface induces positional and orientational order, forming smectic layers around the cylinder. The second and third smectic layers are collapsed at the location of the defects. (b) The biaxiality map shows two biaxial domains localized at the defect cores.