Modulating nanostructure morphology and mesomorphic properties using unsaturation in cardanol-azo benzenes

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry

Background:

• Cardanol, a plant-derived phenol, offers a sustainable platform for novel material synthesis.
• Amphiphilic molecules are crucial for self-assembly into ordered nanostructures.
• Azo dyes are known for their chromophoric properties and potential in various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize new amphiphilic azo dyes utilizing cardanol.
• To investigate the self-assembly behavior of these novel azo dye derivatives.
• To explore the potential of these compounds in forming unique nanostructures and liquid crystalline phases.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of azo dyes via coupling reactions involving cardanol derivatives.
• Characterization of synthesized compounds using spectroscopic techniques (e.g., NMR, UV-Vis).
• Analysis of self-assembly using techniques like microscopy (TEM, SEM) and X-ray diffraction.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of a new class of amphiphilic azo dyes from cardanol.
• Observation of intriguing self-assembly into well-defined nanostructures.
• Identification of bicelles, microgel-like structures, and smectic-type thermotropic mesophases.

Conclusions:

• Cardanol-based azo dyes represent a promising new class of self-assembling materials.
• The unique nanostructures and liquid crystalline properties open avenues for advanced material applications.
• This study highlights the potential of bio-derived phenols in creating functional supramolecular systems.