The properties of phenyl cyclohexyl ferroelectric liquid crystals

To continue the search for novel series of ferroelectric liquid crystals, an additional two series of compounds, C S(+)-4-(2-methylbutyl)phenyl]4'-trans-n-alkylcyclohexyl) benzoates and D S(+)-4-(4-methylhexanoyl)phenyl]4'(4'-trans-n-alkylcyclohexyl) benzoates, where alkyl = C₅-C₆ are reported in this paper. Their mesomorphic properties have been characterized by optical textural observations and DSC. Some of these compounds show a C-S*_C-S_A-N*-I phase transition sequence. The effects of the alkyl chains on transition temperatures and optically active terminal groups on phase behaviour are discussed.