The Synthesis and Physical Properties of Some 1-n-Alkyl-4-(4-substituted phenyl) bicyclo(2.2.2)octanes

The preparation and mesomorphic properties of a number of 1-n-alkyl-4-(4-n-alkyl- and 4-n-alkoxy-phenyl)bicyclo(2.2.2)octanes and 1-n-alkyl-4-(4′-n-alkylbiphenyl-4-yl)bicyclo(2.2.2)octanes are described. The clearing temperatures reported emphasise the high thermal stability conferred upon liquid crystal phases by the presence of the bicyclo-octane ring in a mesogen. Some physical data relating to the use of such materials in mixtures for electro-optical displays have been obtained.