The Synthesis and Mesomorphic Properties of a Novel Homologous Series: α-4-[4′-n-Alkoxy benzoyloxy] Benzoyl -β-2^″-nitro Phenyl Ethylenes

Abstract

The synthesis and mesomorphic properties of novel homologous series are reported. All 11 members of the series, except the methoxy and ethoxy derivatives, are enantiotropically mesogenic. The propoxy to tetradecyloxy homologues exhibits smectognic amd nematogenic behavior, while the hexadecyloxy homologue shows only nematogenic behavior. An odd-even effect is observed for the smectic–nematic and the nematic–isotropic transition curve in the phase diagram. Analytical data support the structure of molecules. The textures of the nematic mesophase are threaded or Schlieren, and that of smectic mesophase are of type-A. The transition temperatures of homologues and other mesomorphic properties are determined using optical polarizing microscopy. The smectic and nematic thermal stabilities are 138.0°C and 163.8°C respectively. The novel series is predominantly nematogenic and partly smectogenic with middle-ordered melting type. The nematic and smectic phase ranges vary between 16°C and 38°C and 6°C and 22°C respectively. The mesogenic properties of the novel series are compared with other structurally similar homologous series.