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Abstract
A new series of asymmetric bent-core compounds were synthesised using azo linkages with equal as well as unequal terminal alkyl chains and their photo and electrical switching properties investigated. The mesomorphic properties were characterised using polarised optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. The lower homologues of the series of compounds show a B1 phase whereas higher homologues exhibit a B2 phase. The B2 phase shows an anticlinic-antiferroelectric switching behaviour during electro-optic measurements. The photo-switching properties of the azobenzene containing bent-core molecules were investigated using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. The trans to cis photo isomerisation was observed at 25 s whereas reverse processes took 14 h in chloroform.
Acknowledgements
M. V and P. K are sincerely acknowledged to Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), New Delhi, India [CSIR scheme no. 01(2095)/07/EMR-II] for their generous financial support. M.V. is thankful to the University Grant Commission, New Delhi, Government of India (UGC Meritorious Research Fellowship-Fl4-112006(BSR0/7-7I2007 (BSR), dt. 04.07.2011). Instrumentation facility provided under FIST-DST and DRS-UGC to Department of Chemistry, Anna University, Chennai, are gratefully acknowledged.