Cross-Coupling Reactions in the Synthesis of Liquid Crystals

Abstract
The synthesis of structurally complex liquid crystals by traditional linear methods is often difficult, if not impossible. When many functional groups of a specific substitution pattern are required it is very likely that the sequence of reactions will interfere with functional groups already present or the directing effect of such functional groups may lead to the wrong substitution pattern. Syntheses using small, more easily managed units of the correct substitution patterns in high-yielding coupling reactions are a much more viable approach; the possible use of the sub-units in the synthesis of many different final compounds leads to systematic and economic syntheses. Suitable methods of synthesis of liquid crystals by cross-coupling reactions of various types are discussed, examples are provided and issues of selectivity are considered. The methods based on arylboronic acids are particularly useful.

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