Through specific-heat and x-ray scattering studies, we show the existence of surface-induced discrete smectic order in the isotropic phase for dodecylcyanobiphenyl (12CB) confined to Anopore membranes. A quantized smectic layer growth is promoted by the pore surface when treated with an aliphatic acid of varying chain length. No surface-induced smectic order develops in untreated or lecithin treated pores nor in liquid crystals that possess a nematic phase.

• Received 13 June 1994

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.73.2708