Synthesis of alkyl-branched main chain copolyimides and their effect on the pretilt angles of liquid crystal alignment

Abstract

Three series of copolyimides containing long alkyl branches were synthesized using the two-step method via poly(amic acid) precursors and chemical imidization. Most of the copolyimides prepared are soluble in polar organic solvents. Good liquid crystal alignment was achieved by buffing the copolyimide films spin-coated onto indium tin oxide glass substrates. The measured liquid crystal pretilt angles range from 0.16degrees to 15.54degrees. The Titan simulation program was used to calculate the dipole of each dianhydride structure and correlate with the observed pretilt angles. Main chain copolyimides with a long alkyl side chain, small dipole, and linear, symmetric and rigid core structures are favourable for generating large pretilt angles.