π-Conjugated molecules with the shape of St. Andrew's cross have been synthesized via fourfold Huisgen reaction. Four 2,5-diaryl-1,3,4-oxadiazol arms are attached to a central pyrazine nucleus. These fluorescent stars, when decorated with a rim of eight alkoxy side chains are discotic liquid crystals. Depending on the substitution pattern, the width of the liquid phase varies within a broad range of 25 °C to 250 °C. In their liquid crystalline phase, the molecules assemble in a typical hexagonal columnar supramolecular arrangement.
Keywords: X-ray scattering; liquid crystals; mesogens; pyrazine; solvatochromism.
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