Dielectric and Optical Studies of Homologous Series of Bicyclo[2,2,2]octane Derivatives with -NCS Terminal Group

The static dielectric constants and the optical birefringence for four members of the homologous series of bicyclo[2,2,2]octane derivatives with -NCS terminal group (pentyl to octyl) have been measured as a function of temperature. From the dielectric anisotropy, the optical birefringence as well as the polarized absorption spectra of the dichroic dye dissolved in the liquid crystalline host the order parameter has been determined. The results obtained by using various experimental methods have been compared with those calculated from the Maier-Saupe mean field theory. It has been found that the order parameter for the successive homologues shows alternation similar to that exhibited for the nematic-isotropic transition temperature.