Synthesis and mesomorphic properties of super high birefringence isothiocyanato bistolane liquid crystals

Four series of high birefringence bistolane liquid crystals containing isothiocyanato termal groups were synthesized and characterized. As well as the phenyl group, both biphenyl and naphthyl moieties were introduced to enhance the birefringence. These bistolane compounds exhibit reasonably low melting points and high birefringence of 0.5-0.8. A eutectic mixture was formulated from these compounds exhibiting a wide nematic range, high figure-of-merit and low viscosity.