Discotic liquid crystals: Synthesis and mesomorphic properties of polyacetylenes carrying triphenylene pendant groups

Jacky Wing Yip Lam, Changmin Xing, Keqing Zhao*, Ben Zhong Tang

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference Proceeding/ReportConference Paper published in a bookpeer-review

Abstract

Triphenylene-containing poly(1-decyne)s with different alkyl chain lengths are synthesized and the effects of the structural variables on their mesomorphic properties are investigated. The monomers [HC≡C(CH2) 8CO2C18H6(OCm H2m+1)5; m = 4-9] are prepared by consecutive etherization, coupling, and esterification reactions. The monomers form columnar phases at room temperature. The polymerizations of the monomers are effected by [Rh(nbd)Cl]2, producing soluble polymers in high yields (up to 84%). The structures and properties of the polymers are characterized and evaluated by IR, NMR, TGA, DSC, POM, and XRD analyses. All the polymers are thermally stable, losing little of their weights when heated to 300°C. The isotropization temperature of the polymers increases initially with the length of alkyl chain but decreases on further extension. Whilst the polymers with shorter and longer alkyl chain lengths adopt a homogeneous hexagonal columnar structure, those with intermediate ones form mesophases with mixed structures.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationLiquid Crystals XII
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2008
EventLiquid Crystals XII - San Diego, CA, United States
Duration: 11 Aug 200812 Aug 2008

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume7050
ISSN (Print)0277-786X

Conference

ConferenceLiquid Crystals XII
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego, CA
Period11/08/0812/08/08

Keywords

  • Conjugated polymers
  • Discotic liquid crystals
  • Liquid crystalline polymers
  • Polyacetylenes
  • Triphenylene

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Discotic liquid crystals: Synthesis and mesomorphic properties of polyacetylenes carrying triphenylene pendant groups'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this