Synthesis and ferroelectric properties of new chiral liquid crystals derived from (S)-lactic acid with alkoxyethanols

A homologous series of chiral materials derived from (S)-lactic acid with alkoxyethanols has been synthesized and their mesomorphic properties investigated. The mesophases and their corresponding transition temperatures were identified by differential scanning calorimetry and polarizing optical microscopy. The spontaneous polarization and electro-optical response of ferroelectric SmC* phase are measured and reported.