Synthesis, characterisation and charge transport properties of a λ-shaped trimer nematogen†

Shape anisotropy is an inherent molecular characteristic of the unusually shaped liquid crystals (US-LCs), revealing its mesogenic capabilities. The synthesis protocols of such compounds already exist; however, the charge transport mechanism has not been reported so far in such molecules. Herein, we report the synthesis, characterization and charge transport properties of λ-shaped 4Azλ10NO₂ nematogen. This compound exhibits a wide nematic phase displaying a schlieren texture. The charge transport in 4Azλ10NO₂ is governed by the hopping mechanism, exhibiting a hole mobility in the order of 10⁻² cm² V⁻¹ s⁻¹ as measured using the time-of-flight (ToF) technique; however, the space-charge limited current (SCLC) technique renders a hole mobility in the of order 10⁻³ cm² V⁻¹ s⁻¹. According to the current study, this material can be used in optoelectronic devices as hole-transporting materials.