Photoresponsive Cyanostilbene Bent-Core Liquid Crystals as New Materials with Light-Driven Modulated Polarization

Two isomeric cyanostilbene photoswitchable bent-core mesogens with polar liquid crystal phases in which macroscopic polarization and luminescence can be light-modulated are introduced. Z/E isomerization or [2+2] cycloaddition photochemical processes occur depending on the chemical structure, which make the compounds very innovative multifunctional advanced materials.

Synthesis, phase behaviour and photo-optical properties of bent-core methacrylate with azobenzene group and corresponding side-chain polymethacrylate

Novel LC monomer and corresponding polymethacrylate are synthesized and their phase behaviour, photooptical properties and photoorientation under polarized-light action are studied.

Azo-containing asymmetric bent-core liquid crystals with modulated smectic phases

We present the synthesis and characterization of ten asymmetric bent-core liquid crystals with enantiotropic modulated smectic (B₇ type) phases. Their relatively low and wide photosensitive mesomorphic temperature range offers potential applications.

Bent-core liquid crystal phases promoted by azo-containing molecules: from monomers to side-chain polymers

In situ photopolymerization or ATRP in solution provide azo-containing polymers showing room temperature SmCP_g arrangements and broad ranges of SmCP mesophase.