Synthesis and Properties of Some Mesomorphic Vinyl Compounds and Their Saturated Analogs

Abstract
The synthesis of a number of mesomorphic vinyl compounds and of their saturated analogs is described. The unsaturated compounds are mostly Schiff bases with styryl, acrylic and methacrylic groups. The mesomorphic properties are studied by means of differential scanning calorimetry and polarizing microscropy. The presence of the double bond does not seem to influence the mesomorphic properties of the compounds in a consistent, predictable way. Literature data for mesomorphic compounds containing vinyl groups and their saturated analogs are also reviewed and discussed in terms of structure-property relationships.