Liquid crystals of some new tolane derivatives containing a 1,2-ethylene linkage

Abstract Three types of nematogenic compound, 4-[2-(trans-4-alkylcyclohexyl)ethyl]-4′-alkyltolanes, 2-fluoro-4-[2-(trans-4-alkylcyclohexyl)ethyl]-4′-alkyltolanes and 4-[2-(trans-4-alkylcyclohexyl)ethyl]-4′-halogenotolanes, have been synthesized and their transition temperatures and enthalpies determined. Their bulk viscosity and birefringence have been estimated from those of mixtures with other liquid-crystalline compounds. These compounds have been found to be excellent materials for twisted nematic displays, because of their wide nematic temperature range, high birefringence (Δn = 0·26), and low viscosity (η = 21 cP at 20°C). Several related compounds having other central linkages, namely -CH2O-, a single bond or -COO-, in place of the 1,2-ethylene group, have also been studied.