This research deals with the synthesis and properties of a new class of polymers, i.e., polyethers that exhibit liquid- crystalline behavior. The polyether functionality will be placed in the so-called main chain of the polymers. Recent work by the principal investigator has shown that such polymers are both thermotropic and lyotropic. The major effort of this research will be directed toward the synthesis of a variety of polyethers of this type. An effort will be made to derive a better understanding of structure-property relationships in liquid- crystalline polymers containing flexible "spacers," such as aliphatic or oligooxyethylenic groups. Exploratory experiments are also planned on the synthesis of ring-shaped and biaxial nematic liquid-crystalline polymers.
