Liquid Crystalline Benzoic Acid Ester MIDA Boronates: Synthesis and Mesomorphic Properties

Abstract Two series of N-methyliminodiacetic acid (MIDA) boronates were prepared and their mesomorphic properties were investigated. MIDA-substituted benzoic acid esters were synthesized via the Mitsunobu reaction. The second series of MIDA benzyl ether derivatives was prepared via Williamson etherification and subsequent borylation. Both series exhibit smectic A (SmA) phases. In the case of MIDA boronate esters, a substitution with perfluorinated side chains led to increased transition temperatures and broadening of the SmA phases. The phase geometries of the mesophases were determined by X-ray diffraction. Quantum-chemical calculations provided further insight into the packing model.