Methyl side-groups control the Ia3̄d phase in core-non-symmetric aryloyl-hydrazine-based molecules

Area of Science:

• Materials Chemistry
• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Liquid Crystals

Background:

• Control over three-dimensional helical networks is vital for advanced materials.
• Liquid crystalline Ia3̄d gyroid phases possess unique nanostructures with potential applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of molecular design on the formation and properties of Ia3̄d gyroid phases.
• To establish a new strategy for controlling liquid crystalline nanostructures through molecular modifications.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of aryloyl-hydrazine-based molecules with methyl side-groups and slight non-symmetry.
• Characterization of liquid crystalline phases and nanostructures using advanced analytical techniques.
• Quantum chemical calculations to elucidate intermolecular interactions.

Main Results:

• Methyl groups and non-symmetry unexpectedly facilitate the formation of Ia3̄d gyroid phases.
• Modified molecules exhibit lower and extended temperature ranges for Ia3̄d phase formation.
• A shift in the core assembly mode from double-layered to single-layered was observed, correlating with an increased twist angle.

Conclusions:

• Molecular design, specifically incorporating methyl groups and non-symmetry, offers a novel strategy for controlling Ia3̄d gyroid phase formation.
• Tuning intermolecular interactions via these modifications is key to achieving desired nanostructures.
• This approach advances the design principles for functional materials based on three-dimensional helical networks.