Abstract
A homologous series of chiral materials derived from (S)‐lactic acid with alkoxyethanols has been synthesized and their mesomorphic properties investigated. The mesophases and their corresponding transition temperatures were identified by differential scanning calorimetry and polarizing optical microscopy. The spontaneous polarization and electro‐optical response of ferroelectric SmC* phase are measured and reported.
Acknowledgement
The authors are grateful to the National Science Council of the Republic of China for financial support (92‐2216‐E‐036‐003).