Synthesis and mesomorphism of [N,N '-bis(3 ',4 '-didodecyloxyphenyl) diaminoglyoxime] complexes with nickel and palladium

A new vic-dioxime, [N,N'-Bis(3',4'-didodecyloxyphenyl)diaminoglyoxime](H2L) has been prepared from 3,4-didodecyloxyaniline and (E,E)-dichloroglyoxime. The (E,E)- and (E,Z)-forms of Ni(II) complex have been isolated, but palladium complex could be isolated only as (E,E)-isomer. The mesomorphic properties of these complexes were investigated by polarizing microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction analysis. These complexes form columnar hexagonal disordered (Col(hd)) mesophases. All complexes are very soluble in common organic solvents. H-1 and C-13 NMR. IR, MS and UV/Vis data are presented.