Unconventional mesogens of hyperbranched amides and corresponding ammonium derivatives

Abstract

A cyclic core is not essential for mesomorphism. But just how flexible, or “open” can be central units in a branched compound be before liquid crystallinity is no longer exhibited? Here, the influence on the substitution patterns and in particular of hydrogen bonding in the title compounds is examined and it is found that protonation of some of the less‐substituted compounds is required in order to impart the required degree of rigidity.