Synthesis of new schiff base ester liquid crystals with a benzothiazole core

A series of new calamitic liquid crystals, 6-methoxy-2-(4-alkanoyloxybenzylidenamino)benzothiazoles, comprising a benzothiazole core, terminal methoxy group and a Schiff base linkage were synthesised and characterised. This series comprises 12 members wherein members differ by the length of the alkanoyloxy chain (C n-1H2n-1COO-, where n = 2–8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18). Their mesomorphic properties were studied by using differential scanning calorimetry, optical polarising microscopy and powder X-ray diffraction techniques. The short chain derivatives (n = 2 and 3) were non-mesogenic compounds, while an enantiotropic nematic phase was present throughout the remaining members of the series. The smectic C phase emerged from the decanoyloxy derivative onwards.