Synthesis and properties of two new liquid crystals: an analytical and thermodynamic study.

Synthesis, analytical performances, thermodynamic and surface properties of two new liquid crystals substituted with poly(ethylene oxide) chains are described. The first of them is N,N'-diphenyl-[4-[2,3,4-tri[2-(2-metoxyethoxy)ethoxy]benzylidene]i mine]piperidine (LC1) and the second is 2-hydroxy-3-methyl-4-[4-[2-(2-butoxyethoxy)ethoxy]] 4'-[4-[2-(2-butoxyethoxy)ethoxy]styryl]azobenzene (LC2). The nematic ranges of the two liquid crystals, determined by differential scanning calorimetry do not interfere. The analytical and thermodynamic studies of LC1 and LC2 in the solid, nematic and liquid state were done using a series of appropriate solutes. Comparison of the analytical performances shows a better efficiency in the nematic state.