Mesogens

Mesogens having the following formula

• wherein
• X is a polymerizable group selected from the group consisting of acryloyloxy alkoxy groups and methacryloyloxy alkoxy groups having alkyl moiety with from 2 to 12 carbon atoms;
• Y consists essentially of an amino group;
• R2 is selected from the group consisting of alkyl groups having from about 1 to 6 carbon atoms and aryl groups;
• and
• R1 and R3are selected from hydrogen and a methyl group.

Mesogens having the following formula:

• wherein X and Y independently are selected from the group consisting of spacer groups, polymerizable groups, and combinations thereof, wherein one or more members selected from the group consisting of X and Y have the following structure:
• wherein Z is selected from the group consisting of spacer groups, terminal functionalities, polymerizable groups, and combinations thereof, said spacer groups being selected from the group consisting of H-(CH2 )n-O- groups, Cl(CH2)n-O- groups, Br(CH2)n-O- groups, wherein n is from about 2 to about 12 wherein the CH2 groups independently can be substituted by oxygen, sulfur, or an ester group;
• provided that from 2 to 12 carbons separate said oxygen or said ester group;
• R2 is selected from the group consisting of alkyl groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms and aryl groups;
• and
• R1 to and R3 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and a methyl group.