Effect of Chain Branching on Mesomorphism in Broad Molecules

Abstract

Two new homologous series of Schiff's bases having the structure

where R₁ = n-alkyl; R ₁, = n-C₅H₁₁ (I), i-C₅H₁₁, (11) were synthesised. The method of preparation and the liquid crystalline properties of these compounds are described. Both series are nematogenic; the smectic phase is absent even in higher members of the series. In series I, the C, and C, homologue exhibit two solid modifications. The influence of branching in the end alkoxy groups of these compounds on the mesomorphism is discussed. The mesomorphic properties of these compounds are compared with those of related compounds.