Soliton propagation in nematic liquid crystals under shear is shown to be possible and studied theoretically. Calculations including those pertaining to the modulation of monochromatic or white light passing through such a liquid-crystal cell are presented. Recent experiments are interpreted accordingly and are in good agreement with the theory presented here.

• Received 5 May 1982

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.49.1335