Structure/property relationships in polycatenar transition metal liquid crystals

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Project objective

Research objectives and content The project is a systematic examination of structure/property relationships in metallomesogens substituted with several peripheral chains. It seeks to examine the relationship between the liquid crystal properties of silver complexes of poly(alkoxy)stilbazoles and related complexes of palladium and platinum. This study will identify the interdependency of lateral chains and intermolecular ionic interactions in the formation of columnar, nematic and the rather rare cubic phases. In this last case, further systematic information will arise on factors affecting promoting these fascinating phases. This work is primarily synthetic in nature, also developing skills in liquid crystals. The develops to more classical 'discotic' liquid crystals of bis(stilbazole)bis(acetylide) complexes of group 10 metals, investigating possibilities of in-mesophase polymerisation via photochemical (2+2) cyclisations. The polymerised structures will have regular, stacked arrays of metal atoms and will therefore be studied as low dimensional conductors. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact) The project allows the applicant to become familiar with new synthetic chemistry, and skills in many aspects of liquid crystal science. Expertise will be gained in optical microscopy and calorimetric studies, in addition to X-ray measurements. The twoyear programme will develop skills in the topical area of Materials, providing a base from which to seek permanent employment. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)

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Participants

• UNIVERSITY OF EXETER · EXETERCoordinatorUnited Kingdom

Links

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