X-ray Structural Analysis of a Mesogenic Compound N,N′-Bis-(p-Butoxybenzylidene)-α,α′-bi-p-Toluidine

Abstract

Crystal and molecular structure of a mesogenic compound N,N′-Bis-p-(Butoxybenzylidene)-α,α′-bi-p-Toluidine has been determined by direct methods. The compound crystallizes in triclinic system with space group P1. Cell parameters are a = 6.116(3), b = 7.916(3), c = 31.421 (8)Å, α = 92.39(2), β = 92.35(3), y = 96.59(2)° and z = 2. The two symmetrical fractions of the molecule are almost planar but the angle between these planes is 63.5°. The molecules are arranged in tilted layers which is precursor to the tilted smectic phase. Crystal-mesophase transition is discussed.

Key Words:

• crystal structure of a smectogen
• X-ray study of a mesogen
• structure-property relationship of liquid crystal.