LC diketones: synthesis, transformations and mesomorphic properties

The synthesis and chemical transformations of various diketones into liquid crystalline compounds are discussed. The diketones were prepared by the interaction of cyclohexene with acid chlorides and benzene in the presence of aluminium chloride (Nenitzescu method) or by Friedel Crafts reaction of trans-4-alkanoyl-1-phenylcyclohexanes or trans-2-alkyl-5-phenylcyclohexanones with acid chlorides, or by the condensation of corresponding Mannich salts with 2-substituted acetoacetates or acetylacetone.