Nonlinear self-action of acoustic waves due to the orientation of anisotropic particles in a sound field (the acoustic Kerr-effect) is considered. Analysis is performed for a liquid crystal in which an ultrasound changes the order parameter, the induced transition from nematic state into isotropic one and vice versa being possible. Estimations are made showing the real opportunity of observing different nonlinear effects (phase self-modulation, wave profile distortion, self-focusing) in a

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... crystal. Article published online by EDP Sciences and available at Article published online by EDP Sciences and available at http://dx.