Biforked mesogens with ester linkages, derived from 3-(3,4-dialkoxyphenyl)-propanoic acid

Abstract

Biforked or polycatenar mesogens derived from 3-(3,4-dialkoxyphenyl)-propanoic acid and with ester bridges between all of the aromatic rings are described. These derivatives exhibit both lamellar, columnar and cubic mesophases. One example of reversed phase order is found (when the sample is cooled from the isotropic liquid as compared to when it is heated from the crystal) which is demonstrated by DSC measurements and microscopy. The relationships between molecular structure and polymorphism are discussed.