The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

LC242, which contains a biphenyl group, possesses a strong π-conjugated core that promotes molecular alignment. To improve the alignment performance of the photoalignment polymer, methacrylate (MA) was incorporated into its structure. The introduced MA enabled crosslinking with LC242 via a radical reaction initiated by a photoinitiator, resulting in enhanced molecular ordering. Experimental analyses, including order parameter and angular absorbance measurements, confirmed improved alignment upon MA incorporation. Additionally, UV-Vis spectroscopy indicated a more stabilized π-π* transition of the chalcone moiety in the MA-containing system. These results highlight an effective molecular design strategy that leverages the structural characteristics of LC242 and the reactivity of MA to enhance both alignment and optical stability.