Effect of Lateral Hydroxy/Alkoxy Group on Mesomorphism of Azobenzene Derivatives

Abstract

Abstract Two homologous series are synthesized by fixing a rigid 4-methyl phenyl azo group to resorcinol moiety. In series I one phenolic -OH group is alkylated whereas, in series II both the phenolic -OH groups are alkylated. Monoethers of series I having free lateral hydroxy group due to strong hydrogen bonding, exhibit nematic mesophases whereas, diethers of series II are non-mesogenic.