Synthesis of phenanthro[a] phenazine derivatives: a novel ring structure forming discotic liquid crystals

Abstract

Phenanthro[a] phenazine, a new heterocyclic ring structure of both biological and physical interest, has been prepared by coupling 1,2-phenylenediamine with triphenylene-1,2-diquinone derivatives in high yields. 2,3,6,7,10-Penta-alkoxyphenanthro[a] phenazines are mesogenic over a broad temperature range. These novel unsymmetrical, coloured, polar, heteroaromatic discotic mesogens are potential candidates for the study of conducting, photoconducting, electroluminescence, photorefrective, etc. properties.