Mesomorphism of azo-esters and chalcone-esters

Abstract

ABSTRACTOne chalcone-ester homologous series of mesogens α-4-[4/-n-alkoxybenzoyloxy phenyl β-4//methoxy benzoyl ethylenes (A) and one azo-ester homologous series of mesogens p-(p/-n-alkoxybenzoyloxy) phenyl azo-p//-methoxy benzene (B) being structurally similar are discussed. Both series (A) and (B) differ in respect of central bridges linking two phenyl rings. Mesomorphic properties start from 6th and 1st member of series (A) and (B) respectively. In series (A), 6th to 12th members show both smectogenic and nematogenic properties, and the 14th and 16th members show only nematogenic property. While in series (B), 1st to 10th members show nematogenic properties, 11th member shows both smectogenic and nematogenic properties, while 12th member shows only smectogenic property. Thermal stability of series (A) is relatively high as compared to series (B). Transition temperatures are observed through hot stage polarizing microscope by the miscibility method. Analytical data support the structure of molecules. Textures of series (A) in nematic are threaded and Schlieren in SmecticSmectic A type, while that of series (B) in nematic are threaded in SmecticSmectic A and smectic C.