One-dimensional ion-conductive columnar liquid crystals incorporating ionic liquids

New columnar liquid crystals have been prepared by mixing fan-shaped molecules 1 having hydroxy groups with ionic liquids 2. The interactions between the hydroxyl moieties and the ionic liquids induce and stabilize the columnar liquid crystalline assemblies. Ionic liquids are self-assembled in the center of columns, and they form one-dimensional ion-transporting channels. The hydrocarbon moieties of fan-shaped molecules function as ion insulators. Macroscopic orientation of the self-assembled columns is achieved by shearing the materials, resulting in higher ionic conductivities along the direction of the columnar axis.