The synthesis and characterization of the phase behaviour of a homologous s
et of polymers of l,m-diamino-n-alkanes with bis [4-(4-alkoxybenzoyloxy)-2-
hydroxybenzaldheyde] copper(II) is reported. The structural peculiarity of
these polymers, which is indicated in the title, stems from the presence of
metal-complexed salicylideneaminato segments connected via the nitrogen at
oms. Calorimetric analysis, polarizing optical microscopy, X-ray diffractio
n and dynamic viscosity measurements indicate the occurrence of nematic mes
omorphism for all the polymers-including two structural analogues containin
g Ni(II) or Pd(II) in place of Cu(II).