In this work, we will show that the concept of nematic order parameter and a generalization of the concept of optical indicatrix, largely used in optics of anisotropic crystals, can be joined to give a new geometrical representation to the anisotropies found in lyotropic liquid crystals. Our theoretical approach will be illustrated using refractive index data of reentrant isotropic—calamitic (discotic) nematic phase transitions of potassium laurate, decanol, and heavy water mixtures.
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