2-Alkoxy-1,3-thiazoles: A new core unit for incorporation into self-organising materials. Synthetic approach, mesomorphism, and electrooptic evaluation

The synthesis and transition temperatures of the first series of 2-alkoxy-1,3-thiazole-based liquid crystals are reported. The 2-alkoxy-1,3-thiazole moiety was generated in high yield via a selective SNAr reaction between 2,5-dibromo-1,3-thiazole and the corresponding long-chain alkoxide. The synthesis and mesomorphic properties of the aforementioned chevron-free 2-alkoxy-1,3-thiazole-based liquid crystals are discussed and compared with their 5-alkoxy-1,3-thiazole and phenyl based analogues. Electrooptical properties for both series of alkoxy-1,3-thiazole-based liquid crystals are also presented and discussed.