Ionic Liquid Crystals with Polycounterions

Abstract

Ionic liquid crystalline compounds were synthesized by ionic complexation of polymeric and low-molecular-weight compounds. Their thermal and orientational properties were examined by polarizing microscopic observation, DSC measurement, and temperature variable X-ray diffraction measurement. The ionic liquid crystals, consisting of a polycarboxylate ion and ammonium ions with an alkyl chain, exhibited a smectic A phase with a focal conic fan texture and a perpendicular alignment. The liquid crystalline properties depended on a configuration of polyions.