Abstract. Flexoelectricity is a new phenomenon in the lyotropic liquid crystal physics. The theory of the effect is developed, taking into account the rate of transbilayer and lateral exchange of molecules. Layered systems with extended bilayers, swollen bilayers, disk-like micelles, etc. are characterized by an area flexoelectric coefficient. Columnar systems with infinite or finite rod-like micelles, discotic amphiphiles, etc. are characterized by a linear flexoelectric coefficient. In general, flexoelectric coefficients of these systems are represented as a sum of the charge, dipole and quadrupole contributions. Direct and converse flexoeffects are discussed. Some new experimental results on flexoelectric effect in black lipid membranes from egg yolk lecithin in voltage registration regime are reported.

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