Synthesis and characterization of nematic liquid crystal based on Schiff-base and ester linking group: effect of terminal group

In the present study, we have synthesized carbonitrile-based nematic liquid crystals (BA1-BA4) with Schiff-base and ester linking groups. The molecular structure of the compounds was confirmed by FT-IR, Mass,1H NMR, and 13C NMR techniques. The liquid crystalline properties of these compounds were examined by polarizing optical microscopy study, and differential scanning calorimetry studies. All four derivatives displayed enantiotropic mesophase with a broad temperature range and thermal stability. Additionally, the structure-property relationship was investigated to understand the effect of the linking group and varying alkyl side chains on the liquid crystalline properties with respect to their type of mesophase, thermal stability, and mesophase temperature range.