Use of time-resolved X-ray scattering methods for investigation of structural formation in polymer liquid crystals (original) (raw)

The paper gives general information about the advantages of using synchrotron radiation in investigation of polymer liquid crystals. Examples are given with thermotropic polymer liquid crystal Poly(heptane-1,7-dyil-4,4’biphenyldicarboxylate). The melt formation of smectic liquid crystal phase and consequent crystallization at decreasing temperature is depicted. Detailed description of different structural parameters, derivable from appropriate analysis of the experimental results, is given. With the aim of all those parameters an overall hierarchical structuring during phase transitions could be revealed. Since some basic terms about liquid crystals and polymer liquid crystals are given, the paper would serve as an introductory reading in the field.