Star-shaped mesogens -- hekates: the most basic star structure with three branches

Top Curr Chem. 2012:318:193-223. doi: 10.1007/128_2011_266.

Abstract

The chapter introduces and defines the term star-shaped mesogens as a highly symmetric subgroup of multipodes. Hekates, the three arm stars, are in the focus of the other sections. Flexible, semi-flexible and shape-persistent mesogens can be distinguished. The chapter presents various modes of self-assembly which account for nanosegregation and space-filling. Recent examples are semi-flexible structures which fold to E-shaped conformers followed by self-organisation in columnar 2D and 3D and micellar cubic structures. Hekates are mesogens that will allow the design of complex mesomorphic and functional materials in the future.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chemical Engineering / methods
  • Liquid Crystals / chemistry*
  • Micelles
  • Models, Chemical*
  • Models, Structural*
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*
  • Nanotechnology
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Micelles
  • Polymers