Metallomesogens derived from benzoxazoles–salicylaldimine conjugates

The synthesis, characterization, and mesomorphic properties of a new series of Schiff bases 2a–h and metal complexes 1a–h–M are prepared and their mesomorphic properties studied. Two single crystallographic structures of 2d (n=12, m=1) and 1g–Pd (n=m=12) were determined by X-ray analysis. Both compounds crystallize in a triclinic space group P−1. A dimeric structure formed by intermolecular H-bonds in 2d was observed, giving nematic phase due to a better aspect ratio. The central geometry at Pd2+ ion is nearly perfect square plane. All Schiff bases 2a–h formed N or/and SmC phases. The formation of mesophases of complexes 1a–h–M was strongly dependent on metal ions incorporated. All Cu2+, Ni2+ and Pd2+ complexes exhibited N or/and SmC phase, respectively. However, Zn2+ and Co2+ complexes were not mesogenic. The lack of mesomorphism was probably attributed to a preferred tetrahedral geometry at Zn2+ and Co2+ over a square-planar geometry at Cu2+ and Pd2+.