Mesomorphism Dependence on Molecular Structure

ABSTRACT

A novel homologous series of liquid crystal (LC) derivatives of general structure: RO·C₆H₄·COO·C₆H₃·OCH₃(ortho)CH = CH·COO·(n)C₅H₁₁ was synthesized and studied with a view to understanding the effect of molecular structure on liquid crystal behavior with reference to lateral –OCH₃ and terminal end group. Homologous series consists of 12 derivatives (C₁–C₁₆), the first five (C₁–C₅), and the last (C₁₆) members are not liquid crystals and the rest of the homologs (C₆–C₁₄) are enantiotropically smectogenic without exhibition of the nematic phase. The textures of the smectic phases are focal conic fan shaped or batonets of smectic-A or smectic-C. Average thermal stability for smectic is 81.8°C and mesophase length ranges from 9°C to 31°C. Transition curves of a phase diagram (Sm-I and Cr-Sm/I) behave in a normal manner. The Sm-I transition curve exhibits an odd-even effect. Analytical and spectral data support the molecular structures. The series is smectogenic of a middle ordered melting type. LC properties of the present series are compared with structurally similar known homologous series. Transition temperatures were determined by an optical polarizing microscope equipped with a heating stage.

KEYWORDS:

• Liquid crystals
• mesomorphic
• nematic
• smectic
• thermotropic

Acknowledgments

The authors are especially thankful to management, principal and HOD (chemistry dept.) of Shree M. & N. Virani Sc. College, Rajkot and Kamani Sc. College & Prataprai Arts College, Amreli for their valuable cooperation to facilitate present research work, and IR spectra. The authors are also thankful to the authorities of Saurashtra University for analytical services.