Synthesis and Mesomorphic Properties of Tolane-Based Fluorinated Liquid Crystals with an Acrylate Linkage

Abstract

Six series of tolane-based fluorinated liquid crystals containing an acrylate linker were synthesized and their mesomorphic properties were characterized. The compounds generally exhibit SmA and N phases in wide temperature ranges. The introduction of acrylate linkers increases the clearing points by 20°C–30°C and suppresses the formation of higher ordered monotropic SmB phases. para-Fluorination is favorable for the mesophase stability, whereas meta-fluorination is not. The introduction of a 2,3,5,6-tetrafluorophenylene group decreases the clearing points and also suppresses the formation of the monotropic SmB phase.

Keywords:

• Cinnamate
• fluorine
• liquid crystals
• tolane

Acknowledgment

This work is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Notes

Cr = crystal; SmA = smectic A phase; SmB = smectic B phase; SmC = smectic C phase; N = nematic phase; I = isotropic liquid; Recr = recrystal.