Twist structure liquid crystals (TSLCs) have attracted increasing attention in photonic applications due to their distinct properties: Bragg reflection, scattering, and optical rotation. However, there exist some issues due to the defects of TSLCs: weak thermal stability, narrow bandwidth, and complicated fabrication. In this review, we introduce the templating technique which includes device structure, templating process, and photonic properties of templated TSLCs to improve the issues. Furthermore, a variety of photonic applications including lasing, optical filters and gratings based on TSLCs with polymer templates are presented. Additionally, other applications of TSLCs are briefly introduced. Finally, the remaining challenges and future perspectives of templated TSLCs are proposed.
Keywords: photonic applications; photonic properties; templating technique; twist structure liquid crystals.