Synthesis and mesomorphic properties of 4-methoxyphenyl 4'- n -alkoxy-2',3',5',6'-tetrafluorobiphenyl-1-carboxylates

A novel type of 4-methoxyphenyl 4'- n -alkoxy-2',3',5',6'-tetrafluorobiphenyl-1-carboxylates have been synthesized. Textural observations by polarizing microscopy and DSC measurements of the phase transitions show that all of these compounds are thermotropic liquid crystals with only a nematic mesophase. The relationship between the properties and chemical structures of these compounds is discussed.