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• A series of novel bis-tolane luminescence liquid crystals (LLCs) with SO 2 CF 3 as terminal were firstly achieved. • Adjustable tri-response thermochromic fluorescent materials (TFMs) were obtained. • TFMs of (CH 3) 2 N-2F-SO 2 CF 3 exhibit excellent character which promise candidate for information encryption. A series of novel bis-tolane luminescence liquid crystals (LLCs) with SO 2 CF 3 as terminal were first time achieved. These SO 2 CF 3 -based LLCs act as thermally responsive emission sources combined with a series of thermosensitive long-chain carboxylic acids with self-crystallization properties to obtain adjustable tri-response thermochromic fluorescent materials (TFMs). Notably, TFMs of (CH 3) 2 N-2F-SO 2 CF 3 exhibit excellent temperature sensitivity and tri-response thermochromic fluorescent character, which display outstanding thermochromic properties from 45 °C to 165 °C. These TFMs displayed an intuitively evident orange under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation then changed to orange-yellow color after adding long-chain carboxylic acids. Notably, it changed to yellow-green when heated to the long-chain carboxylic acids melting point of these phase change materials, further emitting a blue color at the mesophases transition when increasing temperature at 165 °C of (CH 3) 2 N-2F-SO 2 CF 3. Interestingly, the various thermochromic abilities and stimuli-responsive fluorescence of these TFMs could be regulated by substituents of LLCs and long-chain carboxylic acids. Therefore, such tri-response and high-contrasted thermochromic fluorescent character of TFMs are different from previous reports which promise candidates for information encryption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Relatively large temperature changes occur near the phase transition temperature. • A responsivity of a few 10 K/MPa is achieved for a relatively small external stress. • Qualitative agreement between experiments and simple mesoscopic modeling. • Response can be manipulated with cross-linker density and cross-linking stress. • Proximity to critical point enables strong responsivity to an external stimuli. We carry out systematic experimental and theoretical study of elastocaloric (eC) response in nematic liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs), which possess the elastic properties of elastomers combined with the orientational order of liquid crystals. The chemical linking of mesogens to the polymer backbone enables thermomechanical response yielding a large spontaneous change in the LCE geometry on varying the temperature. In LCEs, a relatively large eC effect could be obtained upon adiabatic application or removal of a stress field in the isotropic state near phase transformation to the more ordered state. In these cases a change in the isothermal entropy or adiabatic temperature is compensated with the temperature change of liquid crystal elastomers. This effect could be exploited towards soft condensed state cooling technologies that gain increasing interest due to environmental issues, low-cost and low stimuli field. In the present study we measure directly the elastocaloric temperature change. Experimental measurements are interpreted using a modified Landau-de Gennes mesoscopic model taking into account both internal and external stress fields. Our systematic study identifies conditions yielding responsivity of a few K/MPa, which is two orders of magnitude larger than in the shape memory alloys, the most intensively studied materials for this effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Interaction of PTCDA-dye with nematic liquid crystals enhances photoluminescence properties. • Room temperature photoluminescence (RTPL) shows broad and sharp emissions with blue shifts. • Steady-state photoluminescence (SSPL) exhibits indigo-purple emission with reduced Stokes shift. • Time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) indicates varied lifetimes under different excitations. • Enhanced RTPL, TRPL, and SSPL properties suggest potential photonics and optoelectronics applications. The present research explores the interaction between perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic dianhydride (PTCDA)-dye (PD) and 3b {(E)-1-[3-fluoro-4-(pentyloxy)phenyl]-2-(4-methylphenyl)diazene} liquid crystal (LC) mesophase, 3c{(E)-1-[3-fluoro-4-(hexyloxy)phenyl]-2-(4-methylphenyl)diazene} nematic liquid crystal (NLC) molecule. Spectroscopic characterizations of 3b@PD LC mesophase and 3c@PD NLC molecule were carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), polarizing optical microscope (POM), Raman, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and UV–visible analytical methods. The UV–visible studies revealed a red shift in absorption bands (348.0 nm to 374 nm) with a decrease in optical band gap from 2.43 eV to 2.25 eV. Room temperature photoluminescence (RTPL) spectra of 3b@PD LC mesophase exhibited blue light emission characteristics centred at 453.1 nm and 3c @PD NLC molecule showed broad emission peaks located at 400.7 nm and 324.8 nm. Steady-state photoluminescence (SSPL) spectra showcased indigo-purple emission bands corresponding to the wavelengths 303–353 nm, 420.5 nm, 418 nm, 418.3 nm, and 347.0 nm, however, for the 3c@PD NLC molecule, emission intensity peaks appeared at 429.6 nm, 418.0 nm and 329.0 nm. The stoke's shift for 3b@PD LC mesophase varied between 0.01 eV to 0.613 eV while for 3c@PD NLC molecule it was found in between 0.317 eV to 0.453 eV. POM analysis unveiled distinct fan-like textures with varied colour interfaces. Time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) decay studies unveiled average lifetime of 3b@PD LC mesophase was 1.80 ns, 0.98 ns, 0.308 ns and for 3c@PD NLC molecule, the average lifetime was found to be 0.98 ns, 0.82 ns, and 0.306 ns at various excitation wavelengths. However, phosphorescence decay studies showed faster decay characteristics for 3c@PD NLC molecule (1.40 ns to 4.00 ns) compared with 3b@PD LC mesophase (1.65 to 5.42 ns) when excited at various wavelengths. The interaction between LC molecules and PTCDA demonstrated a significant enhancement in RTPL, TRPL, and SSPL properties, suggesting promising applications in photonics and optoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Misinformation of the experimental data in a recent publication is discussed. • Parasitic effects (artefacts) influencing the dielectric results are also deliberated. • Representation of Cole-Cole diagram with the dielectric data is scrutinised. A research article titled as "Hydrogen-bonded liquid crystal complexes: A comprehensive study of structure, behaviour and potential applications" has been recently published by Meddeb et al., J. Mol. Liq. 395 (2024) 123838. Authors have reported and analysed thermodynamic and dielectric studies on highly ordered SmB and SmG mesophases in 14OBAF/DABCO complexes. But explanations of the dielectric data reported on the material are flawed based on various facts. Unintended wrong interpretations by the authors in reporting and explaining the thermodynamic and dielectric results are discussed here. Influence of various artefacts on acquired dielectric data has also been discussed in order to avoid such problems in further reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Doping of SDS in NLC leads to increased dielectric anisotropy with red-shift • The diffusion coefficient decreases by 80.77 % when the concentration of anionic surfactant increases from 0 to 3.0 wt%. • LC cells with 3.0 wt% anionic surfactant show 30 % decrease in rotational viscosity and 64 % decrease in response time. • A bathochromic shift of 31 nm in UV–Vis spectrum and PL quenching of 64 % is observed with 3.0 wt% dispersion of SDS. Modern research has long focused on controlling and optimizing the dielectric, electro-optical and optical attributes of liquid crystals (LCs) to increase their technological value. Numerous approaches have been investigated for this reason in an effort to overcome various issues such as high response time, high driving voltage requirements, low dielectric anisotropy and limited operating temperature range, etc. The strategy utilizing binary/multicomponent systems is the most investigated and seems to have the most potential out of all the other techniques. In keeping with the same subject, the influence of anionic surfactant on the dielectric, electro-optical, and optical properties of nematic LC (NLC) has been examined. Precisely, dodecane-1-sulfonic acid sodium salt (SDS) which is an anionic surfactant was dispersed in a room temperature NLC E7 at various concentrations. Our findings reveal a significant alteration in the electro-optical behavior resulting from the introduction of an anionic surfactant, extending well beyond the instance of electrode polarization, albeit with a detrimental impact on performance within the low-frequency range as a result of increased ionic contribution. The main findings of this study include a 17.5%% increase in dielectric anisotropy, an appreciable reduction of about 30%% in threshold voltage and rotational viscosity, and approximately 64% reduction in response time in the host NLC due to the addition of anionic salt in it. A significant photoluminescence quenching of about 64%% is observed after dispersion of 3.0% by weight anionic surfactant in E7. These findings offer potential pathways for the development of future technologies in various domains, including photonic devices, biological imaging, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and luminescent markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The effect of brominated monomers on the electro-optical properties of PDLCs was investigated. • Contrast ratio modulation of PDLC films by adjusting the refractive index of the polymer matrix. • The influence of the refractive index of the polymer matrix on the viewing angle of PDLC films was investigated. • PDLC films with high contrast (71.4) and low driving voltage (4.9 V) of only 8 μm thickness were prepared. Currently, thin polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) films used in display applications have rarely been studied because the contrast ratio (CR) considerably decreases with decreasing thickness. Herein, the refractive index of the polymer matrix (n p) is adjusted by introducing bromine atoms and benzene rings into the acrylate, and the on-state transmittance is enhanced by improving the matching degree between n p and the ordinary refractive index of the liquid crystal. Simultaneously, the dissimilarity between n p and the average refractive index of LC is also elevated, which increases off-state scattering. This ultimately results in a 123 % increase in CR. Appropriate n p also broadens the viewing angle. In addition, further introduction of the methyl group on the acrylate monomer significantly increases the polymer pore size, resulting in a voltage reduction of 52 %. This study provides a new approach for enhancing the CR of PDLC films, expanding their potential applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the influence of chalcopyrite (CuFeS 2) nanoplatelets on the ordering of uniform and twist-bend nematic phases of achiral bend-shaped dimers, employing polarized optical microscopy, optical and electro-optical measurements. Specifically, aliphatic amine surface-functionalized hydrophobic chalcopyrite nanoplatelets were synthesized and characterized by XRD, TEM, and IR-vis-UV spectroscopy. Nanocomposites of the liquid crystal compound 1",9"-bis(4-cyanobiphenyl-4'-yl)nonane (CB9CB) with the nanoplatelets were prepared. The study encompasses an assessment of the thermodynamic stability of the nanocomposites, constructing the corresponding phase diagram as a function of temperature and nanoplatelet mass fraction. Large phase temperature shifts were observed for minute mass fractions of NPs. Birefringence measurements were performed to investigate the orientational order parameter and the conical tilt angle's dependence on the mass fraction of the nanoplatelets and the temperature. Additionally, we measured a Fréedericksz-like reorientation transition voltage threshold and switching times as functions of the mass fraction and temperature. A huge increase of the voltage threshold was measured in the twist-bend nematic phase. The dependence of the viscoelastic coefficient ζ on NPls' mass fraction was investigated. The splay elastic constant of the helicoidal structure was estimated, using a coarse grain approximation, to be two orders of magnitude higher than in the uniform nematic phase. Finally, in the twist-bend nematic phase, the impact of temperature and nanoplatelets mass fraction on the hysteresis loop of the reorientation transition was investigated. • Phase diagram of CuFeS2-nanoplatelets dispersed in CB9CB liquid crystal. • Huge increase of the reorientation transition threshold voltage in the twist bend phase. • Estimation of the splay elastic constant of the helicoidal structure. • Large phase temperature shifts for minute mass concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Design and synthesis of new liquid crystals dimers with chiral tilted smectic phases is outlined. • Studied dimers exhibit low melting point, high tilt angle, and temperature-stable helical pitch. • DIMER 3 promotes an anticlinic state in surface-stabilised geometry of antiferroelectric liquid crystals (AFLCs). • The knowledge gained will facilitate the use of designed AFLCs in working electro-optical devices. The growing demand for enhanced optical quality and faster electro-optical response in liquid crystal (LC) photonic devices has expanded the search for advanced materials capable of improving the properties of LCs beyond conventional ones. Among these compounds are LC dimers with ferroelectric and antiferroelectric properties which can be incorporated into LC mixtures to enhance performance. However, existing dimers often feature high melting temperatures, enthalpies, and other physicochemical characteristics that render them unsuitable as dopants in antiferroelectric liquid crystal (AFLC) mixtures targeted to modern photonic devices. Here, we show the design and physicochemical properties of novel dimers which are characterized by low melting points, high tilt angles and spontaneous polarizations, temperature-stable helical structures, and reasonably broad temperature ranges of ferroelectric or antiferroelectric phases. These features have facilitated the effective use of one dimer as a dopant in AFLCs. This eliminates the primary drawback of the electro-optical effect based on the surface-stabilised geometry of AFLCs by strongly promoting the anticlinic state in this effect. Importantly, for the first time, the above can be achieved without affecting any other physicochemical or optical properties of AFLCs. Thus, the obtained results represent a pivotal link between the longstanding concept of developing AFLCs that meet the stringent requirements for electro-optical effects based on surface-stabilised geometry and the realization of novel photonic devices demonstrating all the benefits of this effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Development of a novel solid carbonated food based on CO 2 hydrate. • Surfactant effect on crystal growth dynamics and crystal morphology of CO 2 hydrate. • Discussion on process intensification of hydrate formation and texture of hydrate food. CO 2 hydrate is a remarkable candidate for novel solid carbonated foods because of its large gas capacity. This paper reports the effect of surfactants, essential additives in food production, on hydrate crystal growth by visually observing the CO 2 hydrate crystal growth in aqueous fructose + sucrose fatty acid ester solution + gaseous CO 2 system. Under all thermodynamic conditions, the surfactants affected the crystal growth of CO 2 hydrates at liquid/gas interface, while not influencing growth in the liquid bulk phase. Porous hydrate crystals were formed at the liquid/CO 2 interface and grew continuously along the reactor wall. The hydrate crystal morphology in liquid bulk phase was not affected by surfactants, changing from polyhedral and polygonal to dendritic shapes as temperature decreased. Discussion is provided on how the observation results can be specifically applied to intensification of hydrate formation process design and evaluation of hydrated food texture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Synthesis of high purity ZnO nanoparticles with an average diameters of 6 nm. • Photocurrent response of liquid crystal doped with ZnO nanoparticles detectable across a broad spectrum up to 500 nm. • Enhancement of the photocurrent (up to 30 times) when nanoparticles are not functionalized with a surfactant. We report on enhancing the electro-optical response of nematic liquid crystal (6CHBT) by doping with increasing concentration of ZnO nanoparticles. Photosensitive response of this hybrid system is shown through the generation of a photocurrent at 450 nm. The critical role of surfactants to ensure uniform dispersion of nanoparticles in the liquid crystal matrix and their interplay with the charge carrier collection process are also demonstrated. These properties allow these hybrid liquid crystals to be used in the design of photodetectors integrated into liquid crystal displays without compromising its transparency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Synthesized and characterized cholesterol derivatives with thiazole moiety. • Conducted antimicrobial and antioxidant evaluations of the derivatives. • Evaluated liquid crystalline properties, revealing a chiral nematic mesophase. • Performed thermal investigations using DSC and TGA, alongside DFT calculations. • Conducted comprehensive UV–visible and photoluminescence studies, including PL quantum yield analysis. This study presents the synthesis and comprehensive characterization of novel thiazole Schiff's base compound linked to various substituted formylphenyl cholesteryl carbonates. The structures were confirmed by elemental analysis and 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and FT-IR spectroscopy. Optical texture investigations revealed that only compound 7a exhibited liquid crystalline behaviour, specifically showing a chiral nematic (N*) mesophase. Thermal properties were analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showing phase transitions, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicating their stability ranging from 223 to 361 °C. The compound 7a exhibited significant antibacterial activity with zone of inhibition of 18 mm for Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive) and 25.5 mm for Escherichia coli (gram-negative), and compound 7a and 8 displayed highest antifungal activity with zone of inhibition of 17.5 mm and 24.5 mm against Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans , respectively. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH assay, where compound 8 showed superior scavenging activity with IC 50 value of 101.32 µg/mL. Additionally, the compounds were UV-active and exhibited photoluminescence, showing emission peaks ranging from 412 to 434 nm and a quantum yield of 0.11 to 0.23. In silico predictions indicated promising drug-likeness and bioactivity scores. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations provided insights into the electronic properties and molecular interactions. This research highlights the potential of these thiazole Schiff base derivatives for applications in pharmaceuticals and materials science, contributing valuable data on their multifunctional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The construction of the complex droplets with precisely internal structures is simply by titration water at room temperature and gentle stirring. • The noteworthy achievement is reached by the success formation of a four-component lamellar liquid crystal with two immiscible oils, in addition to water and surfactant. • The precise modulation of the advanced structure of the nano Janus emulsion. • The composition diversity of the liquid crystal provides additional freedom for structural regulation, i.e. from "crescent", "half-moon", to "moon with a hole". Nano-Janus emulsion possesses excellent solubilization capabilities of both aqueous and organic materials, various liquid–liquid interfaces, and precisely controllable morphology. Successful construction of nano Janus droplets at mild conditions of room temperature and low-energy input will expand the industrial application. Two immiscible liquids of silicone oil (SO) and oleic acid (OA) are used as internal phases, and water is added dropwise at mild temperature. The topology of the nano-sized complex droplets is characterized by cryo-TEM, SAXS, and FF-TEM. Micro structure of lamellar liquid crystal (Lα), which is the critical transition phase, is investigated to reveal the formation mechanism. Topology adjustment including size range, volume ratio, and interface curvature is investigated. Complex nano droplets with snowman shape are successfully constructed in batch-scale at mild temperature of 30 °C and water-dripping rate of 1.0 mL/h. Formation of a four-component Lα phase is the critical point to the successful construction of the nano-Janus emulsion, which also creates additional freedom for structural regulation. The size of the complex droplets is freely alternated in the range of 50–500 nm and the morphology of one lobe is controlled from "crescent" to "half-moon", and "moon with a hole". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Eco-friendly polymer dispersed liquid crystal based smart window is proposed and operate at ∼ 11.5 V. • In polymer dispersed liquid crystal, graphene oxide flakes facilitate the liquid crystal molecules to align along the electric field. • Enhanced dielectric properties are attributed to the higher polarizability of graphene oxide and strong π–π interactions between graphene oxide and liquid crystals. • Photoluminescence spectra show a blue shift and increased emission intensity with graphene oxide dispersion. Graphene oxide-polymer dispersed liquid crystal (GO-PDLC) composites are proposed as a solution for energy-efficient switchable windows. These composites were prepared by incorporating varying concentrations of graphene oxide (GO) into a mixture of nematic liquid crystal (E7) and a UV–Vis curable resin using the polymerization-induced phase separation technique. The results indicate that the dispersion of GO at an optimum concentration of 0.005 wt% significantly affects the morphology, phase transition temperatures, and electro-optic properties of polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC). In particular, the GO-PDLC composites exhibit a transition from an opaque to a transparent state at a remarkably low voltage (∼11.5 V) compared to pure PDLC cell. Dielectric analysis reveals that adding GO increases the permittivity, conductivity, and dielectric strength of PDLC composites. Moreover, the Cole-Cole plot indicates a non-Debye type relaxation in a higher frequency region. Furthermore, a blue shift in emission wavelength and enhanced photoluminescence intensity suggest alterations in electronic transitions within the composites. This comprehensive study provides valuable insights into optimizing the properties of PDLCs through the dispersion of GO, thereby offering promising prospects for their utilization in various optoelectronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Weakly-coupled phononic crystal defects as liquid concentration sensors. • Coupling strength decreasing with increasing defect separation. • Possibility to compare a binary liquid mixture with a reference liquid. • High sensitivity due to high quality factors of transmission peaks. • Ratio of the peak frequencies being insensitive to temperature fluctuations. • Ability to sense broad range of liquids in a practical manner. A pair of weakly coupled point defects in a liquid–solid phononic crystal are employed for liquid concentration sensing. An exemplary case of methanol in ethanol is investigated. As the physical and chemical properties of the two constituents are very similar, sensing is a rather difficult task by other analytical means. The defects are formed by thin-walled polyethylene tubing filled with either the reference liquid (ethanol) or the mixture in a square phononic crystal composed of cylindrical steel rods in water. Finite-element method simulations for the dual defect system, which has a small form factor comparable to the acoustic wavelength in water, revealed that two sharp transmission peaks corresponding to the even and odd modes arising from symmetry lifting due to weak defect interaction behave in different manners as the methanol concentration is varied. Specifically, the even mode frequency exhibits a linear dependence on the concentration, whereas the odd mode is associated with a quadratic shift. Besides, a simple coupled mass-spring model is employed to analyze the observed peak behavior as a function of methanol concentration in ethanol. Accordingly, when the acoustic properties of the two liquids in a binary mixture vary in a parallel manner with temperature, the ratio of the resonance frequencies depends only on the concentration, thus offering a sensing scheme immune to temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, it is shown for a number of water-miscible liquids that the even and odd mode frequencies are representative of the dominant contents of the reference and the sample cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A series of curved benzothiadiazolyl-triazole luminescent liquid crystals were successfully synthesized and characterized. • The molecules exhibited smectic mesomorphism when long alkoxy groups terminally substituted them. • Molecules had their photophysical properties modulated by the peripheral groups (λEm = 510–555 nm), but they exhibited intense fluorescence in solution and also in the solid state. • Benzothiadiazolyl-triazole exhibited a fluorescence quenching in the presence of iron ions, suggesting that the system can be applied as a probe. Here, we report the synthesis and study of bent (2,1,3-benzothiadiazolyl)triazole (BTT) derivatives with different peripheral units connected to the BTT core via triple bonds. The click reaction was used as a tool to construct the central unit (benzothiadiazolyl)triazole. The molecules exhibited calamitic mesomorphism when long alkoxy groups terminally substituted them. These compounds combined smectic liquid-crystalline self-assembly with strong fluorescence not only in solution but also in the condensed state. The BTT derivatives show intense photoluminescence in the yellow region (510 to 555 nm) and with quantum yields that reach 90 % efficiency both in solution and in thin films. DFT calculations indicate dihedral angles of 29-31° between the benzothiadiazole and triazole rings, which may suppress pi-stacking and consequently reduce fluorescence quenching in the solid phase. They also show potential for specific detection of iron ions by selective fluorescence quenching. This work demonstrates that the (2,1,3-benzothiadiazolyl)triazole system is viable for preparing luminescent liquid crystals with high quantum efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • These authors have been contributed equally for this work. • Preparation of six new highly emissive benzothioxanthene imide (BTI) derivatives. • As LC materials shows robustness and temperature-stable emission behavior. • X-ray Structures of two benzothioxanthene imide (BTI) derivatives. • Formation of enantiotropic liquid crystals whose mesomorphic properties dependent on the nature, length, and position of the side chain. Liquid crystals (LCs) have garnered significant attention for their unique optical and electrical properties, making them promising candidates in various technological applications such as smart displays, sensors, telecommunications, biomedicals or wearable electronics. In this study, we explore the potential of several highly emissive benzothioxanthene imide (BTI) derivatives as LC materials with a focus on their robustness and temperature-stable emission behavior. By tailoring the molecular structure of BTIs, we have accomplished exceptional emissive properties while maintaining the inherent advantages of LCs, such as their self-organizing ability and responsive nature. We describe the formation of enantiotropic liquid crystals whose mesomorphic properties dependent on the nature, length, and position of the side chain. Moreover, we have investigated the thermal stability of their emission spectra over a wide range of temperature, highlighting their potential use in demanding conditions where precise optical performances are critical. Our findings underscore the importance of molecular design in achieving highly emissive LC materials with enhanced robustness and temperature stability, opening new avenues for the use of BTI derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Six non-chiral compounds were tested as functional dopants to the orthoconic ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC) mixtures. • The miscibility studies show different behaviours in mixtures - destabilization, induction, enhancement and suppression of LC phases. • The effect of the dopant structure on spontaneous polarization, tilt angle, helical pitch and dielectric behaviour of the resulting binary mixtures was established. • The results contribute to better understanding of structure–property relationship of advanced FLCs suitable for specific applications in opto-electronics and photonics. Formulation of multicomponent mixtures possessing the self-organizing behaviour and suitable for specific practical applications is preceded by the design and investigation of bicomponent mixtures as test systems. For this reason, six non-chiral compounds with different molecular structure were tested as functional dopants on the orthoconic ferroelectric liquid crystalline (FLC) material used as base. These dopants (3 containing only phenyl rings and 3 containing also one pyrimidine ring in the rigid core) were differing with the length of both alkyl terminal chains and the type of linkage groups between the alkyl chain and rigid core. The miscibility studies show different behaviours in mixtures, namely destabilization, induction, enhancement and suppression of the liquid crystalline phases. The main aim of this work is to establish the influence of the dopant structure on basic parameters of the resulting binary mixtures, specifically on the mesomorphic behaviour, values of the spontaneous polarization, tilt angle, helical pitch length and dielectric behaviour. Discussion of the effect of the molecular structure on the above mentioned properties should contribute to better understanding of the relationships arising during design and formulation of binary mixtures with properties suitable for specific applications in opto-electronics and photonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Quantum mechanical computations have been conducted on the mesogenic compound 4EHB. • Optimization and electronic properties estimation have been carried out through B3LYP/6-31 g(d,p) level. • Intermolecular interaction energies between pairs of 4EHB have been estimated using M06-2X/6-311 g(d,p) theory. • These computations have provided insights into the mesogenic behavior of the system. The molecule 4-ethoxy-N-(4-ethoxy-2-hydroxybenzylidene)benzohydrazide (4EHB) is characterized by a rigid aroylhydrazone core, acting as a mesogenic unit, and a flexible chain at its terminal end. The aroylhydrazone core comprises two aromatic rings linked by connecting groups, resulting in moderate size and elongation of the molecule. Variations in the positions and orientations of elongated molecules give rise to different mesogenic phases such as Nematic, Smectic, and Hexatic Smectic. The mesogenic behavior of aroylhydrazone-based materials is governed by various non-covalent interactions. In this study, molecular geometry optimization, analysis of HOMO-LUMO orbitals, and MEP surfaces of individual and pairs of 4EHB molecules were conducted using the Density functional B3LYP technique with the basis set 6-31G**. Intermolecular interaction energies between pairs of 4EHB molecules are evaluated using the technique M06-2X/6-311G** in stacking, terminal, and side-to-side (in-plane) configurations. Basis set superposition error (BSSE) is corrected using counterpoise method and interaction energy(I.E.) is decomposed in different components using SAPT0 method at level 6-311G**, which provided insights into the mesogenic behavior of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mesogenic di(decyloxy)-substituted triphenylene 2,3,6,7-tetracarboxyldiimides and triphenylene monoimide diesters were synthesized for the first time. • Having good solubility in common organic solvents and excellent thermally stability. • Different imide substituents have a significant effect on the self-assembly both in solution and the liquid-crystalline state. • One diimide has an unusually large hexagonal columnar mesophase range of 292 °C from 7 °C up to 299 °C. Unlike the well-explored perylene diimides and naphthalene diimides, the synthesis and characterization of triphenylene diimides have not been reported to date. In this study, several di(decyloxy)-substituted triphenylene 2,3,6,7-tetracarboxyldiimides with various imide substituents were synthesized and comprehensively analyzed for their photochemical properties and mesophase behavior. It was observed that different imide substituents significantly affect self-assembly in both solution and the liquid-crystalline state. Specifically, diimide 2 – 1 , with two n-octyl chains at the imide nitrogens, exhibits a tendency to self-assembly at relatively high concentrations in CDCl 3 and displays a hexagonal columnar (Col h) phase near room temperature. Remarkably, its isomer, diimide 2 – 2 , with two branched 2-ethylhexyl chains, exhibits an enatiotropic Col h phase with an unusually large range of 292 °C, extending from 7 °C to 299 °C. Furthermore, the study also reports two triphenylene monoimide diesters as room temperature liquid crystals, each composed of one imide, two alkoxycarbonyl, and two alkoxy side chains. These findings not only enrich the diversity of aromatic diimides but also highlight the potential applications of these novel diimides in the field of liquid crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] In this study, we propose a simpler method to fabricate single-layer polymer cholesteric films with reflective bandwidth over 1500 nm instead of the previous multilayer films. We add polymerizable chiral compounds and non-polymerizable chiral compounds with the same rotation direction into the liquid crystal mixing system. Due to the presence of photoinitiators and UV-absorbing dyes, when UV light irradiates the polymerization, the polymerizable monomers, including the polymerizable chiral compounds, are rapidly polymerized in the near-light side, and the non-polymerizable monomers, including the non-polymerizable chiral compounds and partial monoacrylate monomers, do diffusion movement towards the far-light side, and after the anchoring action of the polymer network, the formation of the small-large-small pitch gradient distribution is realized, which results in the broadband reflection. In the paper, the effect of multiple factors on the reflection broadband of the film is explored, and the polymer-stabilized cholesteric liquid crystal (PSCLC) film with a reflection bandwidth of 1572 nm is successfully prepared, which is demonstrated to have many desirable properties, including thinness and flexibility. The flexible CLC films reported in this study are expected to be promising prospects for several applications such as shielding infrared devices, energy-efficient windows for automobiles, and modern building facades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A series of luminescent ionic liquid crystal compounds was prepared and systematically investigated. • First, a rod-shaped compound with a difluorinated tolane skeleton, decyleneoxy chain, and imidazolium ion was synthesized. • Next, variants containing different counteranions were prepared and subjected to thermophysical/photophysical analyses. • The influence of the counteranion on the thermophysical and photophysical properties of the compounds was studied. • The counteranion volume was found to help modulate the melting temperature and maximum photoluminescence wavelength. Photoluminescent liquid crystal (PLLC) molecules have attracted significant interest because they exhibit both photoluminescent (PL) and liquid crystal (LC) properties within a single-composition molecular system. In the quest to develop PLLC molecules, researchers have explored ionic compounds incorporating ionic moieties in flexible chains or mesogenic structures. Notable examples include disk-shaped columnar PLLCs and smectic (Sm) PLLCs, which exhibit distinct layers of ionic moieties, counterions, and luminescent mesogens. Ionic LC molecules exhibiting the Sm phase at low temperatures and whose phase transition temperatures can be modulated by tuning the ionic moiety show promise as PLLCs. However, reports on Sm PLLC molecules remain scarce. Based on previous findings that difluorinated tolanes can emit fluorescence in the crystalline (Cr) state, we explored their potential as luminescent mesogens for the development of efficient Sm PLLC compounds. In this study, we designed a rod-shaped compound featuring a difluorinated tolane skeleton as a luminescent mesogen, a decyleneoxy chain for stabilizing the LC phase, and an imidazolium ion as an ionic moiety at the chain end to induce the smectic A (SmA) phase. Upon investigating their thermophysical properties, all compounds demonstrated thermotropic LC attributes and contained a SmA phase. Notably, the melting temperature decreased with increasing anion volume. Photophysical property evaluation revealed that the compounds displayed blue photoluminescence in both dilute solutions and Cr states, with no counteranion-dependent variations in photoluminescence observed in the solution. However, the photoluminescence behavior in the Cr-state specimens varies with different counteranions, demonstrating an increased photoluminescence wavelength with increasing anion volume. Furthermore, the Cr ⇄ LC phase transition altered the photoluminescence behavior, highlighting the potential of our molecular design strategy for developing temperature-responsive PL materials. These findings provide valuable insights for designing new PLLC molecules that can serve as effective fluorescent sensors across a range of temperatures, including room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid crystals (LCs) are recognised as an emerging type of responsive and functional materials that exhibit diverse technological applications. The spatial arrangement or alignment of LC molecules creates an optical anisotropy, which influences the propagation of light. This study presents an automated image processing algorithm designed to quantitatively assess LC alignment. The algorithm calculates the image structure tensor and computes a score ranging from 0 to 1 to represent the uniformity of LC alignment. The tool was verified on both artificially generated images of lines with pre-defined orientations and then tested on microscope images of LCs. For the latter, test samples of deformed helix ferroelectric LCs were constructed using three different alignment methods. Analysis of microscopic images of samples prepared utilising photoalignment, polymer rubbing, and oblique evaporation alignment techniques, determined average alignment scores (mean ± standard error of the mean) of 0.44 ± 0.03, 0.26 ± 0.1, and 0.17 ± 0.04, respectively, in comparison to commercially sourced control samples with a score of 0.64 ± 0.03 (n = 5 each). This study paves the way for automated objective assessment of LC alignment, a critical aspect to ensure the optimal performance, reliability, and efficiency of various devices and sensors relying on LC technology. • The structural arrangement or alignment of liquid crystal molecules underpins their functionality in a variety of devices. • This study presents an automated image processing algorithm designed to quantitatively assess liquid crystal alignment. • The algorithm was verified on artificially generated images of pre-defined lines and then tested on microscope images of LCs. • The algorithm was able to identify differences in liquid crystal samples prepared using a variety of alignment methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • We synthesized novel liquid crystal gelators with cholesterol and thiacrown-annelated tetrathiafulvalenes moieties. • Compounds 1b and 1d formed stable gels and exhibited nematic liquid crystalline phases with different nanostructures. • The gels 1d obtained from n-hexane readily adsorbed the toxic dye rhodamine B from water. We synthesized a series of novel liquid crystal (LC) gelators by attaching two cholesterol groups through two ω-thioalkanoyloxy spacers of varying length to thia-crown-annulated tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) moieties (1a – e). Among these compounds, 1b and 1d underwent gelation to form stable supramolecular gels in various organic solvents, and their self-assembled morphology and structure indicated that Van der Waals interactions were the driving force of gel formation. In addition, more than half of the gels (1a – d) transformed into nematic LCs in a certain temperature range, while gelators that did not crystallize during cooling from the isotropic melt formed glassy mesogens. Notably, gelators obtained from n -hexane readily adsorbed rhodamine B in solution, which was considered useful for removing toxic dye molecules in wastewater. LC molecules described herein were capable of gelation and have useful oxidation and stimulus-responsive properties. They may therefore be useful for developing sensors and optoelectronic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 4-alcyloxy-2,3-difluorobenzoic acids self-associate as hydrogen-bonded SmC and SmA liquid crystals. • Mixing 4-alcyloxy-2,3-difluorobenzoic acids and 4-octyloxybenzoic acid the stabilizes a supplementary nematic phase. • The nematic phase shows a relaxation at 1.2 MHz frequency and a short response time to electric field in the millisecond range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Misinterpretation of the various experimental data in a recent publication is discussed. • Parasitic effects have highly influenced the dielectric data. • Testing criteria to validate the dielectric data have been discussed. Recently, a work entitled "Synthesis, thermal, dielectric and electro-optic properties of new series of fluorinated hydrogen-bonded liquid crystals" is published by M. Derbali et al., in J Mol Liq, 367 (2022) 120510. Authors reported SmA and SmC mesophases in the synthesised liquid crystalline materials. However, dielectric data reported here are erroneous when tested even from some fundamental aspects. Inadvertent omissions by the authors in presenting and explaining the dielectric results in terms of frequency dependent permittivity and loss are discussed here so that appropriate precautions may be taken by the readers to avoid such fundamental gross mistakes. Some problems related to other studies are also discussed in brief. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Biocompatible water / AOT / isopropyl myristate microemulsion and liquid crystals drug delivery systems were obtained. • Structural phase transitions microemulsion-liquid crystals were studied by SAXS, NMR, and DLS methods. • The obtained results open the possibility of managing the morphology of the drug delivery systems. This work reports preparation and characterization of biocompatible sodium bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT) / water/ isopropyl myristate (IPM) systems. We studied their ability to form various self-organized structures such as microemulsions and liquid crystal templates for producing nanoparticles such as drug delivery vehicles, which play an important role in delivery of various substances. We determined concentration and temperature conditions that allow for forming various structures in this system and characterized the structural phase transition from the microemulsion to liquid crystalline phase, which is important for delivery of bioactive compounds. The parameters of the liquid crystalline phase of the water/AOT/isopropyl myristate system were calculated for the first time in this work. The sizes of microemulsion droplets were determined. To describe molecular motions in the studied microemulsion, self-diffusion coefficients of each component were measured. The values of relative diffusion coefficients demonstrated that reverse microemulsions were observed at AOT concentrations up to 60 % wt. Further increase in surfactant concentration slows down their molecular mobility and results in formation of aggregates with a bimodal size distribution and a subsequent formation of the hexagonal liquid crystalline phase. Geometry of the mesophase and its structure were investigated by X-ray diffraction. The respective phase diagram was plotted and analyzed using the data of polarized light microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and NMR self-diffusion. In this diagram, the areas corresponding to the microemulsion, the liquid crystal phase, and the structural phase transition were identified. The study of the structural phase transition from the microemulsion to liquid crystal will offer a predictive power for characterizing incorporation of drugs and controlling their delivery to target cells. A deeper understanding of the structural changes is necessary to clearly determine the conditions of drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ferroelectric nematic phase (N F) has quickly become the most studied system in liquid crystal research. In this work, we investigate the origin of such polar structure by studying a compound for which the N F phase directly follows the isotropic liquid phase on cooling, making it a particularly interesting system. Our experimental results evidence the presence of polar correlations already in the high-temperature phase, in which ferroelectric order can be induced under a sufficiently strong electric field. In the N F phase, molecular dynamics and polar correlations are investigated through detailed dynamic dielectric measurements, while second harmonic generation experiments evidence a large value of the main coefficient of the second order dielectric susceptibility tensor. Lastly, experimentally determined parameters are employed for calculations based on a recently proposed theoretical model for the stability of the N F phase. The obtained results suggest that the parallel alignment of dipoles is driven by a subtle interplay between electrostatic and excluded volume interactions. • Polar correlations start to occur in the high-temperature isotropic phase. • The colossal dielectric constants of the ferroelectric nematic phase are ruled out. • The parallel alignment of dipoles stems from intricate electrostatic and excluded volume interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Systematic investigation into the impact of fluorine substitution on the properties of 5O.10 liquid crystal. • Dipole moment analysis showcasing the relationship between fluorine positioning and molecular asymmetry. • Comprehensive examination of NLO properties highlighting fluorination effects on polarizability and hyperpolarizability. • Raman spectroscopy analysis revealing alterations in molecular vibrational modes induced by fluorine substitution. This study investigates the impact of fluorine substitution on the properties of N-(4-decylphenyl)-1-(4-(pentyloxy)phenyl)methanimine liquid crystal (5O.10). By systematically replacing hydrogen atoms with fluorine within the 5O.10 molecule, a nuanced understanding of the structural alterations and consequent property variations is achieved. Density Functional Theory (DFT) computations, incorporating the B3LYP functional and the 6-311G(d,p) basis set, are employed to explore the electronic, optical, and vibrational characteristics of the studied compounds. Geometrical optimization reveals dependency of energy on fluorine substitution, while electrostatic potential (ESP) analysis highlights charge distribution variations. Dipole moment analysis elucidates fluorine's influence on molecular asymmetry, with proximity to electronegative atoms affecting dipole moments. Nonlinear optical (NLO) analysis reveals fluorination's impact on polarizability and hyperpolarizability, crucial for optical material design. Raman spectroscopy illustrates vibrational mode alterations induced by fluorine substitution. Overall, this comprehensive study provides valuable insights into the role of fluorine substitution in tailoring the properties of LCs, guiding the design of novel materials for diverse applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel tetraphenylene dimer was prepared. • Tetraphenylene dimer exhibited the turn-off fluorescence response to Hg2+. • Hg2+-induced mesomorphic transition was observed. • Hg2+-induced gel transition was distinguished. • The kind of triple responses for supramolecular material were firstly presented. The metal-coordination self-assemble system played an important role on constructing novel supramolecular smart-response materials. Although the single and double-response materials based on metal-induced self-assembly had been studied extensively, the triple responses for this kind of supramolecular material was seldom reported. In this work, the first metal-induced self-assemble system with triple responses on photophysical, liquid crystalline and gel properties was presented based on Hg2+-coordination tetraphenylene dimer (Bis-TPE). Bis-TPE was prepared by bridging two alkyl-substituted tetraphenylene with amido chain. It possessed the fluorescence response from the strong emission for Bis-TPE to the faint emission for Bis-TPE -Hg2+ complex. The self-assemble mechanism of Bis-TPE -Hg2+ was clarified as that Hg2+ was located in the cavity of the amido-ether chain of Bis-TPE. The Hg2+-induced mesomorphic transition was also observed from smectic mesophase for Bis-TPE to hexagonal columnar mesophase for Bis-TPE -Hg2+ complex. The unique Hg2+-induced gel transition was further distinguished from low-order spherical morphology for Bis-TPE to high-order fibrous morphology for Bis-TPE -Hg2+ complex. The maximum fluorescence wavelength exhibited the giant shift from 494 nm for Bis-TPE in gel to 606 nm for Bis-TPE -Hg2+ in gel. This kind of triple responses on photophysical, liquid crystalline and gel properties for metal-coordination self-assemble system was described for the first time, affording a new idea on design of new multiple-response materials with unique properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Two series of dibenzofuran- and dibenzothiophene-based liquid crystals were designed and synthesised respectively. • All of the obtained mesogens possessed large negative dielectric anisotropy values. • The calculated orientation of the dipole moment in these compounds was almost perpendicular to their long molecular axis. • A new negative LC mixture with excellent low-temperature stability was formulated. Two series of dibenzofuran- and dibenzothiophene-based liquid crystals were designed and synthesised respectively. The structures of the intermediates and the target mesogens were confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. The melting points of dibenzofuran-based liquid crystals were lower than dibenzothiophene-based ones if the 3-position was long-chain alkoxy while a reversed result was obtained when cyclohexyl and tetrahydropyran were introduced. All of the designed dibenzofuran- and dibenzothiophene-based liquid crystals possessed large negative dielectric anisotropy (Δ ε) values when compared with the reference compounds, which proved the effectiveness of these two heterocycle core units in the improvement of the negative Δ ε. The DFT calculations found that the elevation of the negative Δ ε values might be owed to the orientation of the dipole moment in these new compounds was almost perpendicular to their long molecular axis. A new liquid crystal mixture LTNLCM-1 was finally formulated, which could be stored at −20 °C (−40 °C when filled in liquid crystal cell) for two weeks without any obvious precipitation, illustrating the vital function of the dibenzothiophene-based compounds in improvement of the low-temperature stability of liquid crystal mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Relationships between alcohol antifreeze and freezing resistance as well as self-assembly behavior of system were developed. • Molecular dynamics simulation was used to delve into the effect of alcohol antifreeze in self-assembled system. • An approach based on Gordon parameter was established to assess anti-freezing medium for amphiphilics self-assembly. • A lamellar lytropic liquid crystals with tolerance to temperature as low as −80 °C was developed. The classical lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) prepared in pure water are not adapted to subzero temperatures. However, the fabrication of cryogenic LLCs is highly significant for gaining profound insights into self-assembly at extremely low temperatures. A proficient solution strategy, namely introducing alcohol antifreeze to water, faces a challenge in balancing frozen resistance and efficient self-assembly. Herein, we address this unmet challenge by selecting four alcohols with comparable structure to fabricate cryogenic LLCs system through the supramolecular self-assembly of a long-chain non-ionic surfactant. The freezing point, surfactant solubility, and self-assembly behavior at subzero temperatures were investigated. The alcohol antifreeze plays a significant role in depressing water freezing point and governing assembled microstructures. Both experimental and computational results revealed that alcohols bearing more hydroxyl groups are efficient to lower water freezing point while remain the capability to induce surfactant self-assembly. They can realize solvophobic balance and strong hydrogen-bond interactions. A simple approach based on Gordon parameter was established to evaluate the suitability as an anti-freezing medium for amphiphile self-assembly. Strikingly, a new LLCs system capable of withstanding the extremely low temperature of −80 °C was developed, which shows interestingly continuous phase transitions as temperature lowers to subzero. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into cryogenic supramolecular self-assembly, and offers a significant foundation and evaluation method for the selection of appropriate alcohol antifreeze for cryogenic self-assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Prototype for quantitative detection of Human insulin by 4-cyano-4-pentyl biphenyl (5CB) Liquid Crystals (LCs). • Concentration-dependent behaviour of the human insulin to LC was studied within the range of 25 μM and 500 μM under POM. • Molecular docking using AutoDock software to identify the minimum binding energy site of 5CB-LC on human insulin surface. • Ramachandran plot and Z-score values for stereochemical stability validation. • 5CB docking was conducted separately at four chains of human insulin structure, providing insights for enhancing biosensor accuracy. In this paper, we present a novel approach for label-free detection of human insulin using 5CB liquid crystal (LC). Monitoring insulin levels in the body is essential for treating diseases like diabetes, which are caused by insufficient production or inefficient use of insulin. Contemporary techniques of detection rely on glucose detection, and limited information is available on the direct detection of insulin. A simple method using a common room temperature LC 4-cyano-4-pentyl biphenyl (5CB) interacting with different concentrations of insulin, observed through a polarising optical microscope (POM), is reported in this paper. An analysis of observed textures revealed the detection of insulin as low as 25 μM concentration. The distinguishable features of the observed textures provide a scale for estimating insulin concentration. The effect of different pH and salt concentrations was studied in order to understand the optimal working condition of the proposed biosensor. Image J analysis demonstrated a positive correlation (R2 equal to 0.9553) between grey index (GI) values and human insulin concentrations. RGB analysis and interference studies confirmed the biosensor's specificity in insulin detection. To correlate the textures to the happenings at the molecular level, docking studies were carried out. In addition to this, properties such as aromaticity, H-bond, hydrophobicity, interpolated charges, ionizability and solvent accessible area (SAS) in the minimum energy binding sites of 5CB-LC and human insulin chains were measured to know more about the interaction properties. This novel strategy shows promise for improving insulin detection sensitivity and accuracy, ultimately leading to better diabetes management and healthcare outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The performance degradation and compensation method of the beam-steering device based on liquid crystal polarization grating (LCPG) and liquid crystal adjustable half-wave plate (LCAHWP) is studied. • This beam-steering device can still work at a laser power density of 16 W/cm2 irradiation. • The laser tolerance of the device is higher than that of liquid crystal optical phased array (LCOPA) and liquid crystal micro-lens array (LCMLA). The effects of laser irradiation thermal deposition on the performance degradation of liquid crystal (LC) devices in high-power laser systems are extremely vital. In this study, the first-order beam-steering system (FBS) was developed using a passive liquid crystal polarization grating (LCPG) and liquid crystal adjustable wave-plate (LCAW). The LCPG was prepared by holographic exposure technology, and the LCAW was prepared using the standard LC cell preparation process. We investigated the influences of diffraction efficiency of FBS under a 1070-nm continuous-wave (CW) laser irradiation. The energy is concentrated in the −1st order at first. When the half-wave retardation was reached, all the energy is concentrated in the +1st order (∼97 %), and the beam is deflected. Once the phase retardation decreases below the half-wave retardation, the energy gradually reconcentrates in the −1st order. When the LCAW fails, the diffraction the energy is refocused to the −1st order by the LCPG. The results indicated that both thermal deposition and driving voltage reduce the phase retardation of the LCAW, generating a variation of energy between in ± 1 st orders. By reducing the driving voltage, this half-wave retardation can be recovered under a certain half-wave voltage and laser power density, and the diffraction efficiency of the +1st order can be compensated to ∼97 %. If the reduced phase retardation is not less than half-wave, the FBS can still be modulated in high-power continuous lasers. Our research provides a reference for the development of beam-steering technology based on LC materials in high-power laser systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Detailed description and analysis of twisted domains in NF phase. • The first theoretical description of defects in ferroelectric nematic phase, NF. • Description of disclination lines. • Effect of the applied electric field on defect structure in a confined geometry. Ferroelectric nematics present properties promising for applications, which strongly depend on the confinement conditions and the presence of defects. In this work, we have observed and analysed textures in the cells with homogeneous geometry for a ferroelectric nematogen. The studied compound designated NF6 reveals the ferroelectric nematic phase, N F , directly on cooling from the isotropic phase. The N F phase is stable and persists down to the room temperatures. Textures in the homogeneous cell with antiparallel alignment prefer to be arranged in twisted domains with borderlines oriented preferentially in the perpendicular direction with respect to the surface alignment (rubbing direction). We have described these domains and developed a model of 2π disclinations, which are separating the areas with an opposite twist sense. We discuss the character of disclination charge and explained why these disclination lines prefer to be oriented perpendicularly to the rubbing direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Investigation of a polymorphic ionic liquid crystal ([C 16 -2-Pic][Br]) confined in a mesoporous silica matrix (SBA-15) in three weight ratios (C 16 @SBA): 40, 60 and 80% (w/w). • Full amorphisation of the ionic liquid was achieved upon SBA-15 loading for 40 and 60% preparations and surface mediated stabilisation of low- T morph of [C 16 -2-Pic][Br] for 80% composite. • Long-term retention of [C 16 -2-Pic][Br] in a single phase with higher thermal resistance than the native ionic liquid crystal. • From –20 to 20 °C, enhancement of the conductivity for all hybrid materials relative to bulk ILC as a mixed effect of liquid-like form and silica assisted migration pathways. • C 16 @SBA_60% shows the best compromise between bulk conductivity, phase stability inside pores and lack of electrode polarisation in a larger temperature range. Hybrid solid-like materials prepared from the incorporation of liquid-like ionic conductors into nanoporous matrices could represent an advantage for a variety of electronic applications. Aiming to obtain such materials, three composites of the polymorphic ionic liquid crystal (ILC) 1-hexadecyl-2-methylpyridinium bromide ([C 16 -2-Pic][Br]), loaded in the mesoporous inorganic silica SBA-15 (∼6.8 nm in pore diameter), were prepared at guest–host weight fractions of ∼ 40, 60 and 80% (w/w) and investigated by different techniques: ATR-FTIR, BET, TGA, XRD and DSC. Complete amorphisation was achieved for the 40 and 60% composites, while the 80% preparation was stabilised in the low- T morph of native C 16 , being in the liquid state at room temperature. Furthermore, through Dielectric Relaxation Spectroscopy, the ionic conductivity of the three hybrid materials was characterised, allowing to deconvolute this property in a pure ohmic contribution (conductivity I) and the overlapping of ac − dc transition with interfacial polarisation resulting from the coexistence of the ionic liquid and the quasi-insulating inorganic matrix (conductivity II). From –20 to 20 °C, the conductivity and the corresponding charge migration are faster in all composites relative to the neat ILC, as deduced from the inferior radii of Nyquist arcs. The 60% preparation stood out from the other materials, exhibiting direct conductivity unaffected by electrode polarisation over a larger T -range, leading to the assumption of a nearly continuous silica-mediated charge migration pathway, which is never reached for the 40% composite, while, in the 80% preparation, some C 16 deposits on the outer surface of the pores. Incorporation into the silica matrix proved to be a good strategy for the production of cost-efficient materials with long-term stabilisation of the ionic liquid in a single phase over a large range of temperatures, enabling the prediction of flow and conductive properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Unveiled odd–even sensitivity in liquid crystal compounds using DFT analysis. • Revealed distinctive molecular configurations and NLO properties influenced by spacer units. • Charge distribution mapping elucidated electronic intricacies. • Raman spectra reveal distinct intensity patterns linked to spacer parity. In this article, a comprehensive investigation into a series of liquid crystalline compounds belonging to the α,ω-bis(4-alkylanilinebenzylidene-4′-oxy)alkane (m.OnO.m) family has been conducted to unravel their intricate molecular characteristics. The computational investigations employing DFT/B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) level delve into the odd–even effect, exploring how the presence of spacer units influences the structural, electronic, and vibrational properties of these compounds. Optimization analyses reveal the minimum energy configurations, offering valuable insights into spatial arrangements and symmetry. Visualization of molecular structures emphasizes a distinctive odd–even effect, with compounds exhibiting either U-shaped or Z-shaped configurations based on the parity of spacer units. Charge distribution maps further elucidate electronic intricacies, showcasing the interplay of charges among different atoms. Thermodynamic properties and frontier orbital analysis providing a nuanced understanding of the compounds behavior. NLO parameters exhibited a consistent odd–even effect. Potential Energy Distribution (PED), IR, and Raman spectra analysis, provided a detailed symphony of stretching, bending, and torsional motions. UV–Vis absorption spectra uncover distinctive electronic transitions within each compound. In essence, this research sheds light on the profound impact of spacer units, shaping the structural, electronic, and vibrational characteristics of the liquid crystalline compounds. The odd–even effect emerges as a central theme, weaving a captivating narrative of molecular dynamics within this intriguing class of materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Our review discusses streamlined methods of preparation of nonlamellar lyotropic mesomorph. • It covers structural characterization through TEM, SAXS, DLS etc, emphasizing advanced methodologies for detailed analysis of mesomorphs. • Cubosomes and hexosomes incorporation, increase tailored release kinetics, promising optimized therapeutic outcomes. • Study displays the relationship between molecular arrangement and drug efficacy, guiding precision drug design strategies. Amphiphilic molecules when dissolved in specific solvents form lyotropic mesomorphs with unique crystalline structures and properties. The amphiphilic nature and supramolecular architecture of nonlamellar mesomorphs such as cubosomes and hexosomes, are the adept carriers for drugs both hydrophilic and hydrophobic. The addition of surfactants to a formulation provides stability to nano-self assemblies. The larger surface area of the nano assemblies provides a high drug-loading capacity. Through structural engineering, the drug-loaded lyotropic mesomorphs can navigate through specific tissues or cells, reducing the side effects, and hence optimizing therapeutic impact. This review paper aspires to elucidate the effective and tailored drug delivery strategies and their advantages leading to advanced therapeutic intervention. It also pinpoints preparation strategies, structural-morphology aspects, characterization methods and applications in targeted drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Electrical vehicle safety using optical shuttering action. • A liquid crystal ingredient optical shutter is devised and characterized. • Optically shuttering action characteristics are discussed. • Compilation traditional devices indicates superior features of liquid crystal device. This intermediate phase between solid and liquid enables liquid crystal engineers for various interesting yet fascinating thermo-optical applications. One such application of exploited for electric vehicle safety is optical shutter realized using thermotropic liquid crystals. Optical shutters are essential components in various optical systems, in providing control over the transmission of visible light. These shutters are categorized into various types of mechanical shutters, electro-optical shutters, liquid crystal optical shutters (LCOS) etc. liquid crystal cells and polarizing elements to quickly change the transmittance of light, making them ultimate for applications such as imaging and precision illumination. In this work, we explored the experimental techniques, key specifications, features, and applications of an optical shutter developed using liquid crystalline material LCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • D-A-D mesogens CBC /n and CTBTC/16 were synthesized. • They can self-assemble into SmA and Col hex / p 6 mm structures in LCs and gels. • Their solid fluorescence quantum yields differ greatly. • CBC/12 showed different Φ Fs in its three different solid aggregation states. • Application of CBC/12 as white LED was realized. Three carbazole(C)-benzothiadiazole(B) based D-A-D mesogens CBC/ n ( n = 12, 16) and CTBTC/16 containing terminal N -trialkoxylbenzyl carbazoles at both side of central benzothiadiazole core have been designed and synthesized. By inserting thiophene (T) unit between B and C units, the rigid core was elongated and the molecular conformation changed from twist to planar one, thereby the liquid crystal (LC) phase changed from SmA to Col/ hex phase. Such molecular packings caused by inserting T unit remained in their organogels formed in organic solvents. The long-core compound CTBTC/16 containing T unit with a more planar and tighter π-π packing structure showed a significant optical red shift and a stronger intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) effect than the short-core compounds CBC/ n without thiophene unit. These compounds are all strong fluorescent in solution with fluorescence quantum yields (Φ F) ranging from 38 % to 86 %. But their solid fluorescence quantum yields (Φ Fs) differ greatly with values of 43 %, 11 % and 0.6 % for CBC/12, CBC/16 and CTBTC/16 respectively. Further, short core compound CBC/12 with the highest Φ Fs showed different Φ Fs in its three different solid aggregation states. The application of the short twist core compound CBC/12 as white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) has been realized. The influence of the thiophene unit as well as the terminal alkyl chain length on self-assembly and Φ Fs of these compounds is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In liquid crystals doped with aerosil nanoparticles, the state induced by applying voltage or a magnetic field stays remembered after removing the power. The ability to remember the induced state after removing the power is known as non-volatile memory effect. The present paper describes how the magnitude of voltage and magnetic field affects the memory effect in the nematic phase of liquid crystal 4-cyano-4′-pentylbiphenyl doped with aerosil nanoparticles and with a combination of aerosil and magnetic goethite nanoparticles. Capacitance measurements revealed increasing in memory when the magnitude of voltage and magnetic field is increased. Applying fields with various magnitudes provides the possibility of fabrication a multilevel memory device based on the response to electric or magnetic field. The memory can be erased, and the initial state can be restored by heating the composites to the same temperature. • Memory effect in nematic composites induced by electric and magnetic field was observed. • The magnitude of memory effect can be tuned by intensity of electric or magnetic field. • Heating the composite results in erasing the memory and reaching the initial state. • Potential use as a multilevel memory device is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Benzene-1,4-dicarboxamide (BDA) exhibited a columnar LC phase with an 8 1 -helix. • The axial polarization was generated by 1-D hydrogen bonding between amide units. • Two distinct polymorphs were stably obtained at RT depending on the thermal treatments. • Only the columnar polymorph at RT exhibited a significant piezoelectric response. Polymorphism is a fascinating research subject as it enables diverse functionalities to be achieved from a single molecule. In this study, we present the synthesis and polymorphic behavior of a liquid crystalline (LC) benzene-1,4-dicarboxamide (BDA) derivative (1). Depending on specific thermal treatments, two distinct polymorphs can be obtained at room temperature. These include a metastable glassy columnar (Col gla) and thermodynamically stable monoclinic crystalline (Cry) phases. Through the electric analysis, the Col gla polymorph exhibits a significant piezoelectric response, while the Cry polymorph shows a negligible piezoelectric signal. Notably, the BDA molecule exhibits an 8 1 -helix columnar assembly (Col hel) in the LC phase, comprising syn -conformers with non-zero dipole moments. According to density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the amide group is tilted by 25° with respect to the central benzene ring. The piezoelectric response of the Col hel is comparable to that of the Col gla polymorph. Therefore, it can be inferred that the polar character of the Col gla polymorph is transferred from the Col hel LC phase during the cooling process. Simulation and spectroscopic analyses further reveal that the axial polarizations of both the Col gla and Col hel are driven by the hydrogen-bonding interactions between adjacent amide units in head-to-tail. These findings shed light on the underlying mechanisms of the polymorphic behavior and piezoelectric properties exhibited by the BDA molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Acylhydrazone-functionalized triphenylamine V-shaped liquid crystals (LCs) were synthesized for the first time. • They can self-assemble into room temperature hexagonal columnar LCs over a very wide temperature range. • They can form fluorescent organogels in n -heptanol. • They can act as excellent fluorescent probes for the detection of Cu2+. The construction of multifunctional supramolecular liquid crystals is a hot topic in current research. Herein, we reported the strategy of acylhydrazone-functionalization to construct a novel series of triphenylamine-based multifunctional V-shaped liquid crystals (namely, TPA- n ). These V-shaped molecules can not only self-assemble into room-temperature hexagonal columnar phase over a very wide range of temperatures, but also form fluorescent gels with the morphology of intertwined fibers in n -heptanol. Furthermore, based on the chelation-enhanced fluorescence quenching (CHEQ) mechanism, TPA- n demonstrated excellent fluorescent probes properties for rapid (respond time < 10 s), highly selective and sensitive (LOD = 0.72 nM) detection of Cu2+ in a mixed aqueous solution. Most importantly, probe TPA-12 has been successfully applied for the quantity analysis of Cu2+ in real water samples and fluorescent imaging of Cu2+ in live HT-22 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Binary mixtures of bent-core liquid crystals show columnar and smectic phases with good miscibility. • All mixtures show mesomorphic behaviour, with reductions in their clearing points and liquid crystalline ranges. • The mixtures show strong dielectric response mainly promoted by the presence of ester groups in the bent-core molecules. • Reversible trans -to- cis photoisomerization of azobenzenes is applied to tune the molecular dipole moment, assessed by DFT. • Irradiation increases the conductivity of the equimolar mixture by two orders of magnitude. We report the mesomorphic behaviour, dielectric and ferroelectric properties, and computational modelling of binary mixtures containing two bent-core liquid crystals: the so-called NG75-COO (3,4́- Bis[4-(4-n-tetradecyloxybenzoyloxy)benzoyloxy]biphenyl), which forms smectic phases, and IP31- AzB (3,4′ - Bis[4-(4-n-tetradecyloxyphenylazo)benzoyloxy]biphenyl), which forms columnar phases. The phase diagram, assessed by polarised optical microscopy, shows that the binary mixtures retain the mesophase behaviour of the major component, whilst the equimolar mixture displays smectic-type phases. Dielectric and ferroelectric analyses were carried out on samples containing 10%, 50%, and 90% of IP31-AzB (molar %), and we also investigated structure–property correlations by differential functional theory. The NG75-COO/IP31-AzB mixtures undergo strong dielectric and ferroelectric response due to the presence of highly polarisable groups in the bent-core components, particularly at the ester groups. All the mixtures under study exhibit light-responsiveness induced by reversible E -to- Z photoisomerization (trans -to- cis) of the azobenzene group in IP31-AzB, together with an increase in the molecular dipole moment. The potential to tune the phase behaviour of the mixtures, as well as their dielectric and ferroelectric responses, are investigated by light irradiation under different conditions of intensity and temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Hierarchical polymer patterns formed through reconfiguration of reactive nanoparticles during polymerization. • LC-mediated process yielding optical and morphological anisotropy in polymer patterns. • Investigation into the interplay of forces influencing hierarchical pattern formation. • Spatial and orientational patterning driven by elastic energy gradients. • Innovative approach offers unique insights with potential applications in electronics and photonics. Configuring functional materials at nano- and micron-scales is pivotal, with liquid crystals (LCs) playing a crucial role in imparting molecular orientational order to these materials. This study explores the formation process of hierarchical polymer patterns with optical and morphological anisotropy through comparative analysis of patterning forces. Initially, a low-concentration reactive mesogen (RM) undergoes spinodal decomposition within the liquid crystal (LC), resulting in reactive polymer nanoparticles. Polymerization-induced phase separation further leads to the formation of intermediate polymeric nanoparticles. Subsequently, the randomly distributed reactive polymer nanoparticles undergo spatial and orientational reorganization based on the director configuration of the LC host, predominantly influenced by director distortion rather than dielectrophoretic forces or interfacial adsorption. This phenomenon is akin to the Pickering effect , with particles accumulating in high-strain regions to minimize system elastic energy. Importantly, the hierarchical pattern arises from reactive polymer nanoparticles generated during polymerization, rather than from individual RM molecules before polymerization. This innovative approach offers deeper insights into hierarchical pattern formation in functional materials, with potential applications in electronics and photonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thiacyanine chromonic liquid crystals reveal nanotubular templates through a polynuclear growth mechanism. [Display omitted] • Thiacyanine chromonic liquid crystals (CLCs) in water exhibit phases like nematic (N), lamellar, columnar rectangular (Col r), and columnar oblique (Col ob), even at a minimal 1% (w/v). • Varied aliphatic and aromatic counter ions, with different spacer lengths in thiacyanine dye, influence CLC formation, indicating a significant relationship between counter ion size and water solubility. • Results suggest the application of cost-effective dyes for large-scale CLCs production, opening avenues for exploring interconnected nanotubular fibers. We synthesized novel thiacyanine chromonic liquid crystals (CLCs) and structurally characterized using NMR and mass spectrometry. The impact of distinct substitution at the para position of aromatic counter anions, aliphatic counter ion chain length, and varied spacer parity of thiacyanine dyes on CLC formation is investigated. Liquid crystal properties of the synthesized dyes are characterized by polarizing optical microscopy (POM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. Dyes exhibit nematic (N), lamellar (L α), columnar rectangular (Col r), and columnar oblique (Col ob) CLCs at different concentrations in the water. Electronic absorption spectra reveal Scheibe aggregation in all the dyes. Cylicvoltametry studies confirm redox behaviour in TC-1a and TC-5e dyes. Chromonic LCs hybrid nano-materials are synthesized using sol–gel method. Scanning electron microscopy employed to confirm nano tubular fiber structure of the hybrid nanomaterilals.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Synthesized new tolane-LC diluters terminated by the buty-3-enyl or allyloxy group with a simple synthetic route. • Target compound possesses high Δ n , low melting point, low γ 1 and broad nematic phase range at the same time. • LC diluters achieve a fine balance of excellent properties of high birefringence LC mixtures. • DFT calculations of molecular configuration, dipole moment and polarizability were in line with the experimental results. High birefringence (Δ n) and low melting point (T m), high Δ n and low rotational viscosity (γ 1) are two pairs of contradictory performance parameters. In this work, two high-Δ n LC diluters 3PTPF2V and 3PTPFOV are proposed to achieve a fine balance between them. These target compounds containing a rigid tolane core, a lateral fluorine substituent and a buty-3-enyl or allyloxy terminal group were further synthesized. Some experimental instruments, such as POM, DSC, Abbe refractometer, multi-channel liquid crystal evaluation system, were adopted to investigate their properties of mesomorphic phase behavior, T m , Δ n and γ 1 by comparing with classical LC diluters 3HHV and V2PTP2V. Meanwhile, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were employed to correlate the experimental results, and their comprehensive effects on two high-Δ n LC mixtures were further evaluated. Research results indicated that both target compounds possess low T m (∼20 °C), low γ 1 (∼6.5 mPa·s), and high Δ n (>0.26). Performance in high-Δ n LC mixture demonstrated that they could effectively decrease T m and γ 1 , meanwhile maintain high Δ n and T c values, meaning their potential application prospects in fast-response LC optical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel chiral monomer template resolves key challenges in blue-phase liquid crystal, addressing issues like a shorter phase range and a high driving field. • Refilling the BPLC template with achiral LC results in an expanded phase range of 42 °C, including temperatures near room temperature. • With T-BPLC, we achieve a significantly lower driving field of 3.1 V/µm, which is more than half of what is required for its counterparts. Blue phase liquid crystals (BPLC) are known to be useful for various non-trivial applications due to their nanoscale self-assembled cubic crystalline structures. Even though the BPLC exhibits an efficient optically isotropic phase due to the double helical confinement of liquid crystal (LC) molecules within a few hundred-nanometer range, this hinders the orientation of LC molecules along the applied field direction. Consequently, the BPLC demands larger driving fields to operate, degrading the device's performance in real-world applications. In this context, we provide a chiral monomer template for BPLC that decreases the driving field by 52 % while the electro-optical responses remain unaffected. Furthermore, our approach provides higher thermal stability, with a broader BPLC phase range (42 °C), including near ambient temperature. As this approach potentially overcomes the fundamental challenges of BPLC, the proposed system could be useful for next-generation display devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Doping effect of functionalized CdSe/ZnS QDs on the characteristics of 8OCB LC was investigated. • Mobility of ions and diffusion constant were analyzed by a model based on the electrode polarization phenomenon. • Addition of QDs improved ion transport behavior by decreasing the electrode polarization relaxation time. • The threshold voltage drops remarkably with increasing QDs concentration in the LC system. • When the applied field is turned off, the doped samples exhibit a residual transmittance. The current advancements in developing new liquid crystalline materials for the next generation applications focus mainly on improving the physical characteristics of the liquid crystal (LC) systems. Recent progress has shown that the functionalized nanoparticles embedded in LC matrices can significantly alter the characteristics of the LC material based on the mutual interaction between the host molecules and guest particles. In this aspect, the present study reports the impact of dispersing core-shell type CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) on the dielectric, electrical and electro-optical properties of the 8OCB LC doped at various concentrations. The doped samples exhibit an ion releasing behavior and this effect becomes more evident as the doping concentration increases up to 0.2 wt% in the LC system. It is explained as a result of the growing tactoid-like ellipsoidal form acquired by QDs owing to the enhanced mutual interaction among QD ligands and rod-like LC molecules. The temperature variation of the diffusion constant, conductivity, ionic mobility and mean relaxation time of ions significantly follows each other in all the studied samples. Moreover, thermal profiles of the dielectric anisotropy, threshold voltage and splay elastic constant show a decreasing pattern with an increment in doping concentration. A dual-relaxation regime is experimentally investigated, corresponding to the contribution of nematic director and dimers, providing two kinds of rotational viscosity in the pristine and QDs dispersed LC samples. The transmittance-voltage curve reveals the presence of residual value in the dispersed samples and is related to the volatile memory effect. A slight enhancement is observed in the photoluminescence intensity for the lower doped sample and reduces further with increasing doping concentration in the pristine LC system. All these findings suggest the considerable contribution of functionalized QDs to the studied properties in terms of interaction between the LC and dopant material. This study will further elucidate the selection of optimal QDs concentration based on the required properties for their potential applications in futuristic devices based on LCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Dicationic extended viologen salts containing tosylate as counterions were prepared by Zincke reaction and metathesis reactions. • They exhibited thermotropic ionic liquid crystals that exhibited high ionic conductivity and had high thermal stability. • They are excellent candidates as components in devices for energy conversion and storage devices. Three bis(4-oligoethyleneoxyphenyl) viologen bistosylate salts of different lengths were prepared via the Zincke reaction followed by a metathesis reaction with silver tosylate, and their chemical structures confirmed by 1H, 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) techniques, and elemental analysis. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed these salts had excellent thermal stabilities, losing just 5 % of their initial mass between 283 and 288 °C. Liquid crystalline phases and transition temperatures were determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarizing optical microscopy (POM), and variable temperature X-ray diffraction (VTXRD) techniques. The salts exhibited weak fluorescent emission in dichloromethane and no emission in acetonitrile but exhibited light emission in the solid state. Their absolute quantum yields ranged between 3 and 12 %. Impedance spectroscopy showed that the ionic conductivity of the salts increases with the number of oxyethylene units in the extended viologen moiety. The salt-containing four oxyethylene units at each end reach a conductivity value of 10-2 S·cm−1, attributed to its larger molecular flexibility and improved ionic liquid mobility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Optimized structure monomer and dimer structures of A10 DLC using DFT. • Microscopic molecular dynamics were revealed through FT-IR, FT-Raman, and DFT. • Predicted the mesomorphic models of nematic and columnar of A10. • QTAIM analysis predicts the strength and nature of hydrogen bonding. Utilizing temperature-dependent Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) and Fourier Transform Raman (FT-Raman) spectroscopies, we delved into the spectral properties of 4-((2,3,4-tris(decyloxy)phenyl)diazenyl)benzoic acid, a fascinating discotic liquid crystal (DLC) named A10. Our investigation unravels valuable insights into conformational dynamics, intermolecular hydrogen bonding, and structural stability, throughout enantiotropic phase transitions (Isotropic (Iso) → Discotic Nematic (N D) → Columnar (Col) → Crystalline (Cry)) during cooling. To further understand the mesogen's phasmid structure at atomic level, density functional theory (DFT) is employed, utilizing the B3LYP/6-3116G(d,p) method for optimization and frequency calculations of monomer and dimer of A10. The alignment of computationally predicted molecular models with observed vibrational spectra at room temperature affirms the precision of our theoretical model. Innovatively, our study has uncovered the potential formation of dimer assemblies, demonstrating the persistence of intermolecular hydrogen bonding within these dimers throughout each phase transition of the DLC. Furthermore, we have identified the strength of both intermolecular and intramolecular hydrogen bonding. These findings expand our knowledge of this unique material and pave the way for further research in the field of liquid crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]