Synthesis and properties of fluorescent 1,8-naphthalimide dyes for application in liquid crystal displays

A series of highly fluorescent 1,8-naphthalimide derivatives having an N-al lylamino group at position 4 of the aromatic structure have been synthesise d, and some of their properties for application in liquid crystal displays have been determined. The optical properties of the new substances are stud ied both in organic solvents and in the nematic liquid crystal ZLI 1840. Th e utility of the dyes for colouring liquid crystal displays of the "guest-h ost" type is discussed on the basis of their spectral properties (absorptio n and emission) and the effect that the dyes have upon the orientation orde r parameter [P-2] and upon the phase-transition behaviour of the liquid cry stal in surface-stabilised display cells.