5,6-Fused indane derivatives, and the use thereof as liquid-crystalline component

The quality of liquid-crystalline phases depends substantially on the liquid-crystalline or mesogenic compounds used. By means of novel classes of compound, an improvement in the properties - for example shorter response times in display elements - of liquid-crystalline phases can be achieved. The new class of compounds should, in particular, be suitable as liquid-crystalline or mesogenic compound for components of liquid-crystalline phases. A 5,6-fused indane derivative having the formula in which X = CH2 or O; Y = CHR or C=O; X-Y is alternatively N = CR ; Z = CH2, O, NH or S; R is an alkyl group having 3-12 carbon atoms, and R is an alkyl group having 3-12 carbon atoms, CN, CF3 or OCF3. Liquid-crystalline phases in display elements or electrically switchable shutters.