Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display element

Abstract

The present invention provides a liquid crystal composition having excellent storage stability, orientation and dripping mark suppression, and a liquid crystal display element using the liquid crystal composition. The liquid crystal composition of the present invention is characterized in that it contains: a liquid crystal mixture containing a plurality of liquid crystal molecules, and an orientation aid having at least one adsorption group and used to spontaneously orient the liquid crystal molecules, and the difference between the solubility parameter of the liquid crystal mixture and the solubility parameter of the orientation aid is 17 or less. In addition, it is preferred that the difference between the solubility parameter of the liquid crystal mixture and the solubility parameter of the orientation aid exceeds 2.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid crystal composition and a liquid crystal display element. Background Art

[0002] In the past, in VA-type liquid crystal display elements, a polyimide (PI) film that functions as an alignment film is provided on the electrode in order to induce vertical alignment of liquid crystal molecules when no voltage is applied and to achieve horizontal alignment of liquid crystal molecules when voltage is applied. However, the manufacture of the PI film requires huge costs, and therefore, in recent years, a method for achieving alignment of liquid crystal molecules while omitting the PI film is being studied (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a liquid crystal medium characterized by containing a spontaneous orientation additive having a hydroxyl group based on a mixture of polar compounds having negative dielectric anisotropy. Patent Document 1 also states that the liquid crystal medium can be suitably used in a liquid crystal display element that does not include an orientation film.

[0004] From the viewpoint of fully orienting the liquid crystal molecules, it is preferred to increase the amount of the spontaneous orientation additive (orientation aid) contained in the liquid crystal medium (liquid crystal composition). However, there is the following problem: depending on the combination of the liquid crystal molecules and the spontaneous orientation additive, crystals of the spontaneous orientation additive are easily precipitated when the liquid crystal medium is stored.

[0005] On the other hand, as the use of liquid crystal display elements expands, their use methods and manufacturing methods have also changed greatly. In order to cope with this change, it is necessary to optimize the characteristics other than the basic physical property values ​​known in the past. That is, as liquid crystal display elements using liquid crystal compositions are widely used in VA (vertical alignment) type, IPS (In-Plane Switching) type, etc., ultra-large-sized display elements with a size of 50 or more are put into practical use.

[0006] As the size of the substrate increases, the method of injecting the liquid crystal composition into the substrate has changed from the previous vacuum injection method to the dripping (ODF: One Drop Fill) method, which has become the mainstream injection method (refer to Patent Document 2). The problem of reduced display quality caused by drip marks when the liquid crystal composition is dripped onto the substrate is becoming more and more obvious. Here, the drip mark is defined as the phenomenon that the traces of the liquid crystal composition dripped appear white when the black display is displayed. In particular, when dripping a liquid crystal medium containing a spontaneously oriented additive, it is difficult to make the spontaneously oriented additive uniformly adsorbed on the surface of the substrate, and a liquid crystal medium that satisfies both good liquid crystal orientation and drip mark suppression is required.

[0007] Prior art literature

[0008] Patent Literature

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-524951

[0010] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-235925 Summary of the invention

[0011] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0012] An object of the present invention is to provide a liquid crystal composition having excellent storage stability, orientation and dripping mark suppression, and a liquid crystal display element using the liquid crystal composition.

[0013] Methods for solving problems

[0014] Such objects are achieved by the present invention described below (1) to (15).

[0015] (1) A liquid crystal composition comprising: a liquid crystal mixture containing a plurality of liquid crystal molecules; and an alignment aid having at least one adsorption group and for spontaneously aligning the liquid crystal molecules;

[0016] The difference between the solubility parameter of the liquid crystal mixture and the solubility parameter of the alignment aid is 17 or less.

[0017] (2) In the liquid crystal composition described in (1) above, the difference between the solubility parameter of the liquid crystal mixture and the solubility parameter of the alignment aid is greater than 2.

[0018] (3) In the liquid crystal composition described in (1) or (2) above, the adsorption group is selected from a cyclic group containing an oxygen atom and a chain group containing an oxygen atom.

[0019] (4) The liquid crystal composition according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein the alignment aid contains at least one polymerizable group.

[0020] (5) In the liquid crystal composition described in (4) above, the polymerizable group is selected from the group represented by the following general formulae (AP-1) to (AP-9).

[0021] [Chemistry 1]

[0022]

[0023] (Where R AP1 and R AP2 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or a halogenated alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms [one or two or more -CH2- in the alkyl group may be substituted by -O- or -CO- in a manner that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent, and one or two or more hydrogen atoms in the aforementioned alkyl group may each independently be substituted by a halogen atom or a hydroxyl group.],

[0024] W AP1 represents a single bond, -O-, -COO-, -OCO- or -CH2-,

[0025] t AP1 represents 0, 1 or 2,

[0026] * indicates a bond. )

[0027] (6) the liquid crystal composition according to any one of (1) to (5) above,

[0028] The aforementioned alignment aid contains a mesogen group,

[0029] The aforementioned adsorption group or the aforementioned polymerizable group is bonded to the aforementioned mesogenic group directly or via a spacer group.

[0030] (7) In the liquid crystal composition described in (6) above, the alignment aid contains an alignment inducing group, the alignment inducing group being bonded to the side of the mesogen group opposite to the adsorption group and having a function of inducing the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules.

[0031] (8) In the liquid crystal composition described in (7) above, the alignment inducing group is represented by the following general formula (AK).

[0032] [Chemistry 2]

[0033] R AK1 -* (AK)

[0034] (Where R AK1 Represents a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms [one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- in the alkyl group may be independently substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-, and one or two or more hydrogen atoms in the aforementioned alkyl group may be independently substituted by a halogen group. ] )

[0035] (9) In the liquid crystal composition described in any one of (6) to (8) above, the aforementioned spacer group is an alkylene group having 1 to 30 carbon atoms (wherein, -CH2- in the alkylene group may be substituted by -O-, -CO-, -COO-, -OCO-, -CH=CH- or -C≡C- in a manner where the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent, and the hydrogen atom in the aforementioned alkylene group may be substituted by a halogen atom.).

[0036] (10) In the liquid crystal composition according to any one of (6) to (9) above, the mesogenic group is represented by the following general formula (AL).

[0037] [Chemistry 3]

[0038]

[0039] (Where Z AL1 represents a single bond, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF-, -C≡C-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCOO-, -CF2O-, -OCF2-, -CH=CHCOO-, -OCOCH=CH-, -CH2-CH2COO-, -OCOCH2-CH2-, -CH=C(CH3)COO-, -OCOC(CH3)=CH-, -CH2-CH(CH3)COO-, -OCOCH(CH3)-CH2-, -OCH2CH2O-, or an alkylene group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms [one or more -CH2- in the alkylene group may be substituted by -O-, -COO-, or -OCO- so that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent.],

[0040] A AL1 and A AL2 Each independently represents a divalent cyclic group,

[0041] Z AL1 , A AL1 and A AL2 One or more hydrogen atoms in the halogen group may be independently substituted by a halogen group, the aforementioned adsorption group, or P AP1 -Sp AP1 - or univalent organic group substituted [P AP1 represents the aforementioned polymerizable group, Sp AP1 represents a single bond or the aforementioned spacer group. ],

[0042] There are multiple Z in the molecule AL1 and A AL1 In the case of , they may be the same or different from each other.

[0043] m AL1 Indicates an integer from 1 to 5. )

[0044] (11) The liquid crystal composition according to any one of (1) to (10) above, further comprising a polymerizable compound represented by the following general formula (P).

[0045] [Chemistry 4]

[0046]

[0047] (In formula (P), R p1 represents a hydrogen atom, a fluorine atom, a cyano group, an alkyl group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms, or -Sp p2 -P p2[One or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- in the aforementioned alkyl group may be independently substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-, and one or two or more hydrogen atoms in the aforementioned alkyl group may be independently substituted by a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom.],

[0048] P p1 and P p2 Each independently represents the following general formula (P p1 -1)~Formula (P p1 -9) any one of the following,

[0049] [Chemistry 5]

[0050]

[0051] [Where R p11 and R p12 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or a halogenated alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and W p11 represents a single bond, -O-, -COO-, -OCO- or -CH2-, t p11 Represents 0, 1 or 2, and there are multiple R in the molecule p11 , R p12 , W p11 and / or p11 In the case of , they may be the same or different, and * indicates a bonding bond. ]

[0052] Sp p1 and Sp p2 Each independently represents a single bond or the aforementioned spacer group,

[0053] Z p1 and Z p2 Each independently represents a single bond, -O-, -S-, -CH2-, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -CO-, -C2H4-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCOOCH2-, -CH2OCOO-, -OCH2CH2O-, -CO-NR ZP1 -, -NR ZP1 -CO-, -SCH2-, -CH2S-, -CH=CR ZP1 -COO-, -CH=CR ZP1 -OCO-, -COO-CR ZP1 =CH-, -OCO-CR ZP1 =CH-, -COO-CR ZP1 =CH-COO-, -COO-CR ZP1 =CH-OCO-, -OCO-CR ZP1=CH-COO-, -OCO-CR ZP1 =CH-OCO-, -(CH2)2-COO-, -(CH2)2-OCO-, -OCO-(CH2)2-, -(C=O)-O-(CH2)2-, -CH=CH-, -CF= CF-, -CF=CH-, -CH=CF-, -CF2-, -CF2O-, -OCF2-, -CF2CH2-, -CH2CF2-, -CF2CF2- or -C≡C-[where, R ZP1 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and a plurality of R ZP1 In the case of , they may be the same or different. ],

[0054] A p1 , A p2 and A p3 Each independently represents a group selected from p ), group (b p ) and group (c p ) in the group consisting of [the aforementioned group (a p ), group (b p ) and group (c p ), each independently, the hydrogen atom present in the group may be replaced by a halogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, a cyano group or -Sp p2 -P p2 replace.],

[0055] (a p )1,4-cyclohexylene [one -CH2- or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- in the group may be substituted by -O-.];

[0056] (b p ) 1,4-phenylene [one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= in the group may be substituted with -N=. ];

[0057] (c p ) naphthalene-2,6-diyl, naphthalene-1,4-diyl, naphthalene-1,5-diyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, phenanthrene-2,7-diyl or anthracene-2,6-diyl [one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= in these groups may be substituted with -N=.],

[0058] m p1 represents 0, 1, 2 or 3,

[0059] There are multiple Z in the molecule p1 , A p2 、Spp2 and / or P p2 In the case of p1 is 0 and A p1 For the aforementioned group (c p ), A p3 Can be a single key.)

[0060] (12) A liquid crystal display element comprising two substrates and a liquid crystal layer provided between the two substrates and containing the liquid crystal composition according to any one of (1) to (11) above.

[0061] (13) In the liquid crystal display element described in (12) above, the liquid crystal layer contains a polymer of the alignment aid.

[0062] (14) The liquid crystal display element described in (12) or (13) above, which is a PSA type, PSVA type, VA type, IPS type, FFS type or ECB type.

[0063] (15) In the liquid crystal display element described in any one of (12) to (14) above, at least one of the two substrates does not have an alignment film.

[0064] Effects of the Invention

[0065] According to the present invention, there can be provided an alignment aid having excellent storage stability, capable of achieving good alignment of liquid crystal molecules and stably maintaining the obtained alignment and tilt angle, a liquid crystal composition containing the alignment aid, and a liquid crystal display element. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] Figure 1 The figure is an exploded perspective view schematically showing one embodiment of a liquid crystal display element.

[0067] Figure 2 For the general Figure 1 An enlarged plan view of the area enclosed by line I in FIG.

[0068] Explanation of symbols

[0069] 1: liquid crystal display element; AM: active matrix substrate; CF: color filter substrate; 2: first substrate; 3: second substrate; 4: liquid crystal layer; 5: pixel electrode layer; 6: common electrode layer; 7: first polarizing plate; 8: second polarizing plate; 9: color filter; 11: gate bus; 12: data bus; 13: pixel electrode; 14: Cs electrode; 15: source electrode; 16: drain electrode; 17: contact hole. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] Hereinafter, the alignment aid, the liquid crystal composition, and the liquid crystal display element of the present invention will be described in detail based on preferred embodiments.

[0071] (Liquid Crystal Composition)

[0072] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention is used to form a liquid crystal layer of a liquid crystal display element and contains liquid crystal molecules having a negative dielectric anisotropy (Δε) and an alignment aid having a function of spontaneously aligning the liquid crystal molecules (alignment aid of the present invention).

[0073] ((Orientation aid))

[0074] The alignment aid has the following functions: it interacts with components that are directly in contact with the liquid crystal layer containing the liquid crystal composition (electrodes (such as ITO), substrates (such as glass substrates, acrylic substrates, transparent substrates, flexible substrates, etc.), resin layers (such as color filters, alignment films, outer coatings, etc.), insulating films (such as inorganic material films, SiNx, etc.)), and induces vertical alignment of liquid crystal molecules contained in the liquid crystal layer.

[0075] The alignment aid preferably has a polymerizable group for polymerization, a mesogenic group similar to a liquid crystal molecule, an adsorption group (polar group) capable of interacting with a member directly in contact with the liquid crystal layer, and an alignment inducing group that induces alignment of the liquid crystal molecules.

[0076] It is preferred that the adsorbing group and the orientation inducing group are combined with the mesogenic group, and the polymerizable group is substituted onto the mesogenic group, the adsorbing group and the orientation inducing group directly or via a spacer group as required. It is particularly preferred that the polymerizable group is substituted onto the mesogenic group while being incorporated into the adsorbing group.

[0077] In the following chemical formulas, the * on the left and the * on the right represent bonds.

[0078] “Orientation-inducing group”

[0079] The alignment inducing group has a function of inducing the alignment of liquid crystal molecules, and is preferably a group represented by the following general formula (AK).

[0080] [Chemistry 6]

[0081] R AK1 -* (AK)

[0082] In the formula, R AK1 It represents a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms. In the alkyl group, one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups may each independently be substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-, and one or two or more hydrogen atoms in the alkyl group may each independently be substituted by a halogen group.

[0083] R AK1 It preferably represents a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably represents a linear alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, and further preferably represents a linear alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms.

[0084] Furthermore, one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be substituted with -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-.

[0085] Furthermore, the hydrogen atom in the alkyl group may be substituted by a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom, and may be substituted by a fluorine atom.

[0086] From the viewpoint of imparting so-called amphiphilicity to the alignment aid, the alignment inducing group is preferably bonded to the side of the mesogenic group opposite to the adsorption group.

[0087] "Polymerizing Group"

[0088] The polymerizable group is composed of P AP1 - indicates that it is preferred to use -Sp AP1 - (single bond or spacer group) bonded to the mesogenic group.

[0089] P AP1 Preferred are groups selected from the group represented by the following general formulae (AP-1) to (AP-9).

[0090] [Chemistry 7]

[0091]

[0092] In the formula, R AP1 and R AP2 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or a halogenated alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms. In particular, one or two or more -CH2- in the alkyl group may be substituted by -O- or -CO- in a manner that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent, and one or two or more hydrogen atoms in the alkyl group may each independently be substituted by a halogen atom or a hydroxyl group.

[0093] W AP1 It represents a single bond, -O-, -COO-, -OCO- or -CH2-.

[0094] t AP1 Represents 0, 1, or 2.

[0095] P AP1 Preferred are groups represented by the following general formulae (AP-1) to (AP-7), more preferred are groups represented by the following general formulae (AP-1) or (AP-2), and still more preferred are groups represented by general formula (AP-1).

[0096] Sp AP1 It preferably represents a single bond or a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably represents a single bond or a linear alkylene group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, and further preferably represents a single bond or a linear alkylene group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms.

[0097] In addition, Sp AP1 In the alkylene group, one or two or more -CH2- groups may be independently substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-, so that the oxygen atoms are not directly adjacent to each other.

[0098] Among the orientation aids, P AP1 -Sp AP1 The number of - is preferably 1 or more and 5 or less, more preferably 1 or more and 4 or less, further preferably 2 or more and 4 or less, particularly preferably 2 or 3, and most preferably 2.

[0099] P AP1 -Sp AP1 The hydrogen atoms in - can be replaced by polymerizable groups, adsorption groups and / or orientation inducing groups.

[0100] P AP1 -Sp AP1 - can be bound to polymerizable groups, mesogenic groups, adsorbing groups and / or orientation inducing groups.

[0101] In addition, P AP1 -Sp AP1 - preferably bound to a mesogenic group, an adsorbing group or an orientation inducing group, more preferably bound to a mesogenic group or an adsorbing group.

[0102] It should be noted that there are multiple P AP1 and / or Sp AP1 -, they may be the same as or different from each other.

[0103] "Mesogen Group"

[0104] The mesogen group refers to a group having a rigid part, for example, a group having one or more cyclic groups, preferably a group having 2 to 4 cyclic groups, and more preferably a group having 3 to 4 cyclic groups. It should be noted that the cyclic groups can be connected by a connecting group as required. The mesogen group preferably has a skeleton similar to that of the liquid crystal molecule (liquid crystal compound) used in the liquid crystal layer.

[0105] It should be noted that, in the present specification, "cyclic group" refers to an atomic group whose constituent atoms are combined into a ring, including a carbocyclic ring, a heterocyclic ring, a saturated or unsaturated cyclic structure, a monocyclic ring, a bicyclic structure, a polycyclic structure, an aromatic group, a non-aromatic group, etc.

[0106] In addition, the cyclic group may contain at least one heteroatom, and may be substituted by at least one substituent (halogen group, polymerizable group, organic group (alkyl group, alkoxy group, aryl group, etc.)). When the cyclic group is a monocyclic ring, the mesogenic group preferably contains two or more monocyclic rings.

[0107] The above-mentioned mesogenic group is preferably represented by, for example, the general formula (AL).

[0108] [Chemistry 8]

[0109]

[0110] In the formula, Z AL1 It represents a single bond, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF-, -C≡C-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCOO-, -CF2O-, -OCF2-, -CH=CHCOO-, -OCOCH=CH-, -CH2-CH2COO-, -OCOCH2-CH2-, -CH=C(CH3)COO-, -OCOC(CH3)=CH-, -CH2-CH(CH3)COO-, -OCOCH(CH3)-CH2-, -OCH2CH2O-, or an alkylene group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms. In the alkylene group, one or more -CH2- groups may be substituted by -O-, -COO-, or -OCO- so that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent.

[0111] A AL1 and A AL2 Each independently represents a divalent cyclic group.

[0112] Z AL1 , A AL1 and A AL2 One or more hydrogen atoms in the AP1 -Sp AP1 - or substituted with a monovalent organic group,

[0113] It should be noted that there are multiple Z AL1 and A AL1 In the case of , each may be the same as or different from each other.

[0114] m AL1 Indicates an integer from 1 to 5.

[0115] In the general formula (AL), Z AL1It is preferably a single bond or an alkylene group having 2 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably a single bond or an alkylene group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, and still more preferably a single bond, -(CH2)2- or -(CH2)4-. One or more -CH2- in the alkylene group may be substituted with -O-, -COO- or -OCO- in a manner that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent.

[0116] Furthermore, in order to improve the linearity of the rod-shaped molecule, Z AL1 Preferably, the single bond directly connecting the rings is an even-numbered form, and the number of atoms directly connecting the rings is 4 in the case of -CH2-CH2COO-.

[0117] In the general formula (AL), A AL1 and A AL2 Each independently represents a divalent cyclic group. The divalent cyclic group is preferably selected from 1,4-phenylene, 1,4-cyclohexylene, 1,4-cyclohexenyl, tetrahydropyran-2,5-diyl, 1,3-dihydropyran-2,5-diyl, alkane-2,5-diyl, tetrahydrothiopyran-2,5-diyl, thiophene-2,5-diyl, 1,4-bicyclo(2.2.2)octylene, decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, pyridine-2,5-diyl, pyrimidine-2,5-diyl, pyrazine-2,5-diyl, thiophene-2,5-diyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, 2,6-naphthylene, phenanthrene-2,7-diyl, 9,10-dihydrophenanthrene-2,7-diyl, 1,2,3,4,4a,9,10a-octahydrophenanthrene-2,7-diyl, 1,4 The present invention is one selected from the group consisting of 1,4-phenylene, 1,4-cyclohexylene, 2,6-naphthylene or phenanthrene-2,7-diyl, and more preferably 1,4-phenylene or 1,4-cyclohexylene.

[0118] It should be noted that these groups may be unsubstituted or substituted with a substituent. The substituent is preferably a fluorine atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms. Furthermore, the alkyl group may be substituted with a fluorine atom or a hydroxyl group.

[0119] In addition, one or more hydrogen atoms in the cyclic group may be replaced by a halogen group, an adsorbing group, a P AP1 -Sp AP1 - or substituted with a monovalent organic group.

[0120] In the general formula (AL), the monovalent organic group is a group whose chemical structure is formed by an organic compound in the form of a monovalent group, and refers to an atomic group formed by removing one hydrogen atom from an organic compound.

[0121] Examples of the monovalent organic group include an alkyl group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 15 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms, and an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 15 carbon atoms. Preferably, the group is an alkyl group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms. More preferably, the group is an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms. Further preferably, the group is an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. Particularly preferably, the group is an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 2 carbon atoms. Most preferably, the group is an alkyl group having 1 or 2 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 carbon atom.

[0122] In addition, one or more -CH2- in the above-mentioned alkyl, alkenyl, alkoxy and alkenyloxy groups may be substituted with -O-, -COO- or -OCO- so that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent. Furthermore, the above-mentioned monovalent organic group may also function as the above-mentioned orientation inducing group.

[0123] In the above general formula (AL), m AL1 It is preferably an integer of 1 to 4, more preferably an integer of 1 to 3, and even more preferably 2 or 3.

[0124] Preferred embodiments of the mesogenic group include the following formulae (me-1) to (me-44).

[0125] [Chemistry 9]

[0126]

[0127] [Chemistry 10]

[0128]

[0129] [Chemistry 11]

[0130]

[0131] [Chemistry 12]

[0132]

[0133] The general formula (AL) is a structure in which two hydrogen atoms are separated from these compounds.

[0134] In the formulae (me-1) to (me-44), one or more hydrogen atoms in the cyclohexane ring, benzene ring or naphthalene ring may be independently substituted with a halogen group, a P AP1 -Sp AP1-, a monovalent organic group (e.g., an alkyl group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 14 carbon atoms), an adsorbing group, or an orientation inducing group.

[0135] Among the above-mentioned mesogenic groups, preferred forms are formulae (me-8) to (me-44), more preferred forms are formulae (me-8) to (me-10), (me-12) to (me-18), (me-22) to (me-24), (me-26) to (me-27) and (me-29) to (me-44), and further preferred forms are formulae (me-12), (me-14), (me-16), (me-22) to (me-24), (me-29), (me-34), (me-36) to (me-37), and (me-42) to (me-44).

[0136] Among the above-mentioned mesogenic groups, a particularly preferred embodiment is the following general formula (AL-1) or (AL-2), and the most preferred embodiment is the following general formula (AL-1).

[0137] [Chemistry 13]

[0138]

[0139] Where, X AL101 ~X AL118 , X AL201 ~X AL214 each independently represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a halogen group, APl -Sp APl -, the adsorption group described later or the orientation inducing group described above.

[0140] Ring A AL11 , Ring A AL12 and Ring A AL21 Each independently represents a cyclohexane ring or a benzene ring.

[0141] X AL101 ~X AL118 , X AL201 ~X AL214 Any one or two or more of them are substituted by the adsorption groups described below.

[0142] X AL101 ~X AL118 , X AL201 ~X AL214 Any one or more of the groups are substituted by the aforementioned orientation inducing groups.

[0143] The adsorption groups described later and the orientation inducing groups described above can be AP1 -Sp AP1 -replace.

[0144] The molecule of the general formula (AL-1) or the general formula (AL-2) has one or more P AP1 -Sp APl -

[0145] In the general formula (AL-1), X AL101 The aforementioned orientation inducing group is preferred.

[0146] In the general formula (AL-1), X is preferably AL109 , X AL110 and X AL111 At least one of them is an adsorption group described below, and more preferably X AL109 and X AL110 are the adsorption groups or X described later. AL110 is an adsorption group described below, and X is further preferably AL110 It is the adsorption group described later.

[0147] In the general formula (AL-1), X is preferably AL109 , X AL110 and X AL111 At least one of the following is P in the adsorption group AP1 -Sp AP1 - or an adsorption group having a polymerizable site in the structure, more preferably X AL109 and X AL111 Both or one of them is P AP1 -Sp AP1 -

[0148] In the general formula (AL-1), X AL104 ~X AL108 , X AL112 ~X AL116 One or two of them are each independently preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or a halogen group, and more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms or a fluorine atom. In particular, X AL105 , X AL106 or X AL107 Each independently is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms or a fluorine atom.

[0149] In the general formula (AL-2), X AL201 The aforementioned orientation inducing group is preferred.

[0150] In the general formula (AL-2), preferably X AL207 , X AL208 and X AL209 At least one of them is an adsorption group described below, and more preferably X AL207 and X AL208 are the adsorption groups or X described later. AL208is an adsorption group described below, and X is further preferably AL208 It is the adsorption group described later.

[0151] In the general formula (AL-2), X is preferably AL207 , X AL208 and X AL209 At least one of the following is P in the adsorption group AP1 -Sp AP1 - or an adsorption group having a polymerizable site in the structure, more preferably X AL207 and X AL209 Both or one of them is P AP1 -Sp AP1 -

[0152] In the general formula (AL-2), X AL202 ~X AL206 , X AL210 ~X AL214 One or two of them are each independently preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or a halogen group, and more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms or a fluorine atom. In particular, X AL204 , X AL205 or X AL206 Each independently is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms or a fluorine atom.

[0153] Adsorption Group

[0154] The adsorption group is a group having a function of adsorbing to an adsorption medium, and the adsorption medium is a layer such as a substrate, a film, an electrode, etc., which is in contact with the liquid crystal composition.

[0155] Adsorption is generally divided into chemical adsorption, which forms a chemical bond (covalent bond, ionic bond or metallic bond) and is adsorbed between the adsorption medium and the adsorbate, and physical adsorption other than chemical adsorption. In this specification, adsorption can be any of chemical adsorption and physical adsorption, preferably physical adsorption. Therefore, the adsorption group is preferably a group that can be physically adsorbed with the adsorption medium, and more preferably a group that can be combined with the adsorption medium using intermolecular forces.

[0156] Examples of the bonding with the adsorption medium utilizing intermolecular forces include those utilizing interactions such as permanent dipoles, permanent quadrupoles, dispersion forces, charge transfer forces, and hydrogen bonds.

[0157] Preferred forms of the adsorbent group include forms that can bind to the adsorption medium via hydrogen bonding. In this case, the adsorbent group may play the role of either a proton donor or an acceptor via hydrogen bonding, or may play the role of both.

[0158] The adsorbing group is preferably a group containing a polar element having an atomic group formed by connecting a carbon atom and a heteroatom (hereinafter, "adsorbing group" is also referred to as "polar group"). In the present specification, the polar element refers to an atomic group formed by directly connecting a carbon atom and a heteroatom.

[0159] The hetero atom is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of N, O, S, P, B and Si, more preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of N, O and S, further preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of N and O, and particularly preferably O.

[0160] In the alignment aid, the valence of the polar element is not particularly limited, and may be monovalent, divalent, trivalent, or the like. Also, the number of polar elements in the adsorption group is not particularly limited.

[0161] The alignment aid preferably has 1 to 8 adsorption groups in one molecule, more preferably 1 to 4 adsorption groups, and further preferably 1 to 3 adsorption groups.

[0162] It should be noted that the adsorption group does not include polymerizable groups and orientation-inducing groups, but the adsorption group includes the hydrogen atoms in the adsorption group being AP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted structures and P AP1 -Sp AP1 The structure in which the hydrogen atom in - is replaced by -OH.

[0163] The adsorption group contains one or more polar elements and is generally divided into a ring group type and a chain group type.

[0164] The cyclic group type is a form in which a cyclic group having a cyclic structure containing a polar element is contained in the structure, and the chain group type is a form in which a cyclic group having a cyclic structure containing a polar element is not contained in the structure.

[0165] The chain group type is a form in which a polar element is present in a linear or branched chain group, and a part of the linear or branched chain group may have a cyclic structure without a polar element.

[0166] The cyclic group type adsorption group means a structure having at least one polar element in a cyclic atomic array.

[0167] It should be noted that in the present specification, the cyclic group is as described above. Therefore, the cyclic group type adsorption group only needs to include a cyclic group containing a polar element, and the adsorption group as a whole may be branched or linear.

[0168] On the other hand, the chain group type adsorption group means a structure having a structure in which a cyclic atomic arrangement containing a polar element is not contained in the molecule and a linear atomic arrangement (which may be branched) contains at least one polar element.

[0169] It should be noted that in this specification, a chain group refers to an atomic group in which the structural formula does not contain a cyclic atomic arrangement and the constituent atoms are combined into a linear (which may be branched) shape, and refers to a non-cyclic group. In other words, a chain group refers to a straight-chain or branched aliphatic group, and may contain either a saturated bond or an unsaturated bond.

[0170] Therefore, the chain group includes, for example, an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, an alkoxy group, an ester group, an ether group or a ketone group. It should be noted that the hydrogen atoms in these groups may be substituted by at least one substituent (a reactive functional group (vinyl, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, etc.), a chain organic group (alkyl, cyano, etc.)). In addition, the chain group may be either straight chain or branched chain.

[0171] As the cyclic group type adsorption group, preferably, it is a heteroaromatic group (including condensed ring) having 3 to 20 carbon atoms or a heteroalicyclic group (including condensed ring) having 3 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably, it is a heteroaromatic group (including condensed ring) having 3 to 12 carbon atoms or a heteroalicyclic group (including condensed ring) having 3 to 12 carbon atoms, and further preferably, it is a 5-membered heteroaromatic group, a 5-membered heteroalicyclic group, a 6-membered heteroaromatic group or a 6-membered heteroalicyclic group. It should be noted that the hydrogen atoms in these ring structures may be substituted by a halogen group, a linear or branched alkyl group or an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0172] As the chain group type adsorption group, it is preferred that the hydrogen atom or -CH2- in the structure is substituted by a polar element, and that the straight chain or branched chain alkyl group has 1 to 20 carbon atoms. It should be noted that one or more non-adjacent -CH2- in the alkyl group may be substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-. In addition, the chain group type adsorption group preferably contains one or more polar elements at its end.

[0173] The hydrogen atoms in the adsorbing groups may be replaced by polymerizable groups.

[0174] Specific examples of polar elements include polar elements containing oxygen atoms (hereinafter referred to as oxygen-containing polar elements), polar elements containing nitrogen atoms (hereinafter referred to as nitrogen-containing polar elements), polar elements containing phosphorus atoms (hereinafter referred to as phosphorus-containing polar elements), polar elements containing boron atoms (hereinafter referred to as boron-containing polar elements), polar elements containing silicon atoms (hereinafter referred to as silicon-containing polar elements), or polar elements containing sulfur atoms (hereinafter referred to as sulfur-containing polar elements). From the viewpoint of adsorption capacity, the polar element is preferably a nitrogen-containing polar element or an oxygen-containing polar element, and more preferably an oxygen-containing polar element.

[0175] The oxygen-containing polar element is preferably at least one group selected from the group consisting of a hydroxyl group, an alkanol group, an alkoxy group, a formyl group, a carboxyl group, an ether group, a carbonyl group, a carbonate group and an ester group, or a group in which the group is connected to a carbon atom.

[0176] The nitrogen-containing polar element is preferably at least one group selected from the group consisting of a cyano group, a primary amine, a secondary amine, a tertiary amine, a pyridyl group, a carbamoyl group, and a urea group, or a group in which the group is bonded to a carbon atom.

[0177] Therefore, as the adsorption group, it is preferred that the group is one or more groups selected from the group consisting of a cyclic group having an oxygen-containing polar element (hereinafter referred to as an oxygen-containing cyclic group), a cyclic group having a nitrogen-containing polar element (hereinafter referred to as a nitrogen-containing cyclic group), a chain group having an oxygen-containing polar element (hereinafter referred to as an oxygen-containing chain group) and a chain group having a nitrogen-containing polar element (hereinafter referred to as a nitrogen-containing chain group), or the group contains such a group.

[0178] As the oxygen-containing cyclic group, any of the following groups having an oxygen atom in the form of an ether group in the ring structure is preferred.

[0179] [Chemistry 14]

[0180]

[0181] Furthermore, as the oxygen-containing cyclic group, any of the following groups having an oxygen atom in the form of a carbonyl group, a carbonate group, and an ester group in the ring structure is preferably contained.

[0182] [Chemistry 15]

[0183]

[0184] As the nitrogen-containing cyclic group, any of the following groups is preferably contained.

[0185] [Chemistry 16]

[0186]

[0187] As the oxygen-containing chain group, any of the following groups is preferably contained.

[0188] [Chemistry 17]

[0189] *-OH *-OR at1 *-COOH

[0190] In the formula, R at1 It represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0191] Z at1 It represents a single bond, a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms, or a linear or branched alkenylene group having 2 to 18 carbon atoms. In this case, -CH2- in the alkylene group or alkenylene group may be substituted with -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, or -OCO- so that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent.

[0192] X at1 It represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms. In addition, -CH2- in the alkyl group may be substituted by -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, or -OCO- so that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent.

[0193] As the nitrogen-containing chain group, any of the following groups is preferably contained.

[0194] [Chemistry 18]

[0195] *-C≡N *-NH2

[0196] In the formula, R at , R bt , R ct and R dt Each independently represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0197] As the adsorption group, a group represented by the following general formula (AT) is preferred.

[0198] [Chemistry 19]

[0199] *-Sp AT1 -W AT1 -Z AT1 (AT)

[0200] Where, Sp AT1 represents a single bond, a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 25 carbon atoms. The hydrogen atoms in the alkylene group may be -OH, -CN, -W AT1 -Z AT1 or P AP1 -Sp AP1-substituted, -CH2- in the alkylene group may be substituted by a cyclic group, -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, -OCO-, or -CH=CH- in a manner in which the oxygen atom is not directly bonded.

[0201] W AT1 represents a single bond or the following general formula (WAT1) or (WAT2).

[0202] Z AT1 represents a monovalent group containing a polar element. AT1 The hydrogen atoms in the AP1 -Sp AP1 -replace.

[0203] [Chemistry 20]

[0204]

[0205] (Where Sp WAT1 and Sp WAT2 Each independently represents a single bond, a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 25 carbon atoms, and the hydrogen atoms in the alkylene group may be -OH, -CN or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted, the -CH2- in the alkylene group may be substituted by a cyclic group, -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, -OCO- or -CH=CH- in a manner that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent.)

[0206] Sp AT1 、Sp WAT1 and Sp WAT2 Each independently preferably represents a single bond or a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably represents a single bond or a linear alkylene group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, and further preferably represents a single bond or a linear alkylene group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms.

[0207] In addition, Sp AT1 、Sp WAT1 and Sp WAT2 In the alkylene group, one or two or more -CH2- groups may be independently substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO- so that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent to the alkylene group.

[0208] In addition, Sp AT1 and Sp WAT1 The hydrogen atoms in the AT1 -Z AT1 or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -replace.

[0209] Z AT1 It represents a monovalent group containing a polar element, and is preferably a group represented by the following general formula (ZAT1-1) or (ZAT1-2).

[0210] [Chemistry 21]

[0211] *-Sp ZAT11 -Z ZAT11 -R ZAT11 (ZAT1-1)

[0212]

[0213] Where, Sp ZAT11 and Sp ZAT12 Each independently represents a single bond, a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 25 carbon atoms. The hydrogen atoms in the alkylene group may be -OH, -CN, -Z ZAT11 -R ZAT11 or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted, the -CH2- in the alkylene group may be substituted by a cyclic group, -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, -OCO- or -CH=CH- in a manner such that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent.

[0214] Z ZAT11 It indicates a group containing a polar element.

[0215] In the general formula (ZAT1-2), Z ZAT12 The structure represented by the ring represents a 5- to 7-membered ring.

[0216] Z ZAT11 and Z ZAT12 The hydrogen atoms in the AP1 -Sp AP1 -replace.

[0217] R ZAT11 and R ZAT12 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms. The hydrogen atom in the alkyl group may be -OH, -CN or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted, the -CH2- in the alkyl group may be replaced by a cyclic group, -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, -OCO-, -CH=CH- or -Z in a manner that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent to the alkyl group. ZAT11 -replace.

[0218] As the group represented by the general formula (ZAT1-1), groups represented by the following general formulae (ZAT1-1-1) to (ZAT1-1-30) are preferred.

[0219] [Chemistry 22]

[0220]

[0221] [Chemistry 23]

[0222]

[0223] In the formula, the hydrogen atom bound to the carbon atom can be -OH, -CN or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -replace.

[0224] Sp ZAT11 represents a single bond, a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 25 carbon atoms. The hydrogen atoms in the alkylene group may be -OH, -CN, -Z ZAT11 -R ZAT11 or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted, the -CH2- in the alkylene group may be substituted by a cyclic group, -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, -OCO- or -CH=CH- in a manner such that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent.

[0225] R ZAT11 represents a hydrogen atom or a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms. The hydrogen atom in the alkyl group may be -OH, -CN, -Sp AT1 -W AT1 -Z AT1 or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted, the -CH2- in the alkyl group may be replaced by a cyclic group, -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, -OCO-, -CH=CH- or -Z in a manner that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent to the alkyl group. ZAT11 -replace.

[0226] As the group represented by the general formula (ZAT1-2), groups represented by the following general formulae (ZAT1-2-1) to (ZAT1-2-9) are preferred.

[0227] [Chemistry 24]

[0228]

[0229] In the formula, the hydrogen atom bonded to the carbon atom can be halogen atom, -OH, -CN or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -replace.

[0230] Sp ZAT11 represents a single bond, a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 25 carbon atoms. The hydrogen atoms in the alkylene group may be -OH, -CN or PAP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted, the -CH2- in the alkylene group may be replaced by a cyclic group, -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, -OCO-, -CH=CH- or -Z in a manner that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent to the alkylene group. ZAT11 -replace.

[0231] Examples of the group represented by the general formula (ZAT1-1) include the following groups.

[0232] [Chemistry 25]

[0233]

[0234] [Chemistry 26]

[0235]

[0236] [Chemistry 27]

[0237]

[0238] [Chemistry 28]

[0239]

[0240] [Chemistry 29]

[0241]

[0242] In the formula, R tc represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -. The hydrogen atom in the alkyl group can be -OH, -CN or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted, the -CH2- in the alkyl group may be replaced by a cyclic group, -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, -OCO-, -CH=CH- or -Z in a manner that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent to the alkyl group. ZAT11 -replace.

[0243] The hydrogen atoms in the molecule can be AP1 -Sp AP1 -replace.

[0244] * indicates a bonding bond.

[0245] As Z AT1 Among the preferred groups, groups containing OH are particularly preferred because they can ensure storage stability by being stably mixed in the liquid crystal composition and exhibit good orientation restraining force due to a moderately high adsorption force to the adsorption medium. In addition, as the mesogenic group, a combination with (AL-1) is particularly preferred.

[0246] The alignment aid is preferably a form in which the polar elements contained in the adsorption group and the polar elements contained in the polymerizable group are concentrated locally. The adsorption group is an important structure for vertically aligning the liquid crystal molecules. By making the adsorption group adjacent to the polymerizable group, better alignment can be obtained, and it also shows good solubility in the liquid crystal composition.

[0247] Specifically, the alignment aid preferably has a polymerizable group and an adsorption group on the same ring of the mesogenic group. This form includes: a form in which one or more polymerizable groups and one or more adsorption groups are respectively bonded to the same ring; a form in which at least one of the one or more polymerizable groups or at least one of the one or more adsorption groups is bonded to the other, thereby having a polymerizable group and an adsorption group on the same ring.

[0248] In this case, the hydrogen atom in the spacer group bonded to the polymerizable group may be substituted with the adsorbing group, and further, the hydrogen atom in the adsorbing group may be substituted with the polymerizable group via the spacer group.

[0249] As the alignment aid (spontaneous alignment compound), a compound represented by the following general formula (SAL) is preferred.

[0250] [Chemistry 30]

[0251]

[0252] In the formula, the hydrogen atom bonded to the carbon atom may be a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 25 carbon atoms, -OH, -CN, -Sp AT1 -W AT1 -Z AT1 or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted. The hydrogen atom in the alkyl group can be replaced by -OH, -CN, -Sp AT1 -W AT1 -Z AT1 or P AP1 -Sp AP1 -substituted, the -CH2- in the alkyl group may be substituted by a cyclic group, -O-, -COO-, -C(=O)-, -OCO- or -CH=CH- in a manner in which the oxygen atom is not directly bonded.

[0253] R AK1 Represents the same as R in the general formula (AK) AK1 Same meaning.

[0254] A AL1 and A AL2 Each independently represents the same as A in the general formula (AL) AL1 and AAL2 Same meaning.

[0255] Z AL1 It represents the same as Z in the general formula (AL) AL1 Same meaning.

[0256] m AL1 Indicates the m in the general formula (AL) AL1 Same meaning.

[0257] Sp AT1 Indicates the same as Sp in the general formula (AT) AT1 Same meaning.

[0258] W AT1 Indicates the same as W in the general formula (AT) AT1 Same meaning.

[0259] Z AT1 It represents the same as Z in the general formula (AT) AT1 Same meaning.

[0260] As the compound represented by the general formula (SAL), compounds represented by the following formulas (SAL-1.1) to (SAL-2.11) are preferred.

[0261] [Chemistry 31]

[0262]

[0263] [Chemistry 32]

[0264]

[0265] [Chemistry 33]

[0266]

[0267] [Chemistry 34]

[0268]

[0269] [Chemistry 35]

[0270]

[0271] [Chemistry 36]

[0272]

[0273] [Chemistry 37]

[0274]

[0275] [Chemistry 38]

[0276]

[0277] [Chemistry 39]

[0278]

[0279] [Chemistry 40]

[0280]

[0281] [Chemistry 41]

[0282]

[0283] [Chemistry 42]

[0284]

[0285] [Chemistry 43]

[0286]

[0287] ((Polymerizable compound))

[0288] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains a polymerizable compound represented by the following general formula (P). The polymerizable compound has a function of imparting a predetermined pretilt angle to liquid crystal molecules. The liquid crystal composition may contain two or more of the polymerizable compounds.

[0289] [Chemistry 44]

[0290]

[0291] In formula (P), R p1 represents a hydrogen atom, a fluorine atom, a cyano group, an alkyl group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms, or -Sp p2 -P p2 . Among them, one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- in the alkyl group may be substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-. In addition, one or two or more hydrogen atoms in the alkyl group may be substituted by cyano, fluorine or chlorine atoms.

[0292] P p1 and P p2 Each independently represents the following general formula (P p1 -1)~Formula (P p1 -9).

[0293] [Chemistry 45]

[0294]

[0295] (Where R p11 and R p12 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or a halogenated alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and W p11 represents a single bond, -O-, -COO-, -OCO-, or -CH2-, t p11 Represents 0, 1 or 2, and there are multiple R in the molecule p11 , R p12 , W p11 and / or p11 In the case of , they can be the same or different. )

[0296] Sp p1 and Sp p2 Each independently represents a single bond or a spacer group.

[0297] Z p1 and Z p2 Each independently represents a single bond, -O-, -S-, -CH2-, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -CO-, -C2H4-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCOOCH2-, -CH2OCOO-, -OCH2CH2O-, -CO-NR ZP1 -, -NR ZP1 -CO-, -SCH2-, -CH2S-, -CH=CR ZP1 -COO-, -CH=CR ZP1 -OCO-, -COO-CR ZP1 =CH-, -OCO-CR ZP1 =CH-, -COO-CR ZP1 =CH-COO-, -COO-CR ZP1 =CH-OCO-, -OCO-CR ZP1 =CH-COO-, -OCO-CR ZP1 =CH-OCO-, -(CH2)2-COO-, -(CH2)2-OCO-, -OCO-(CH2)2-, -(C=O)-O-(CH2)2-, -CH=CH-, -CF= CF-, -CF=CH-, -CH=CF-, -CF2-, -CF2O-, -OCF2-, -CF2CH2-, -CH2CF2-, -CF2CF2- or -C≡C- (where, R ZP1 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and a plurality of R ZP1 In the case of , they may be the same or different. ).

[0298] A p1 , A p2 and A p3Each independently represents a group selected from p ), group (b p ) and group (c p ) in the group consisting of (the aforementioned group (a p ), group (b p ) and group (c p ), each independently, the hydrogen atom present in the group may be replaced by a halogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, a cyano group or -Sp p2 -P p2 replace.).

[0299] (a p )1,4-cyclohexylene (one -CH2- or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- in the group may be replaced by -O-);

[0300] (b p ) 1,4-phenylene (one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= in the group may be substituted by -N=.);

[0301] (c p ) naphthalene-2,6-diyl, naphthalene-1,4-diyl, naphthalene-1,5-diyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, phenanthrene-2,7-diyl or anthracene-2,6-diyl (one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= in these groups may be substituted with -N=).

[0302] m p1 Represents 0, 1, 2, or 3.

[0303] There are multiple Z in the molecule p1 , A p2 、Sp p2 and / or P p2 In the case of m, they can be the same or different. p1 is 0 and A p1 For the group (c p ), A p3 It can also be a single bond.

[0304] It should be noted that the polymerizable compound does not include an alignment aid.

[0305] R p1 Preferably -Sp p2 -P p2 .

[0306] P p1 and P p2 Each independently preferably is of the general formula (P p1-1)~Formula (P p1 -3), more preferably (P p1 -1).

[0307] R p11 and R p12 Each independently is preferably a hydrogen atom or a methyl group.

[0308] t p11 Preferably 0 or 1.

[0309] W p11 Preferred is a single bond, -CH2- or -C2H4-.

[0310] m p1 Preferably it is 0, 1 or 2, preferably 0 or 1.

[0311] Z p1 and Z p2 Each of them is independently preferably a single bond, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -CO-, -C2H4-, -COO-, -OCO-, -COOC2H4-, -OCOC2H4-, -C2H4OCO-, -C2H4COO-, -CH=CH-, -CF2-, -CF2O-, -(CH2)2-COO-, -(CH2)2-OCO-, -OCO-(CH2)2-, -CH=CH-COO-, -COO-CH=CH-, -OCOCH=CH-, -COO-(CH2)2 -, -OCF2- or -C≡C-, more preferably a single bond, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -C2H4-, -COO-, -OCO-, -COOC2H4-, -OCOC2H4-, -C2H4OCO-, -C2H4COO-, -CH=CH-, -(CH2)2-COO-, -(CH2)2-OCO-, -OCO-(CH2)2-, -CH=CH-COO-, -COO-CH=CH-, -OCOCH=CH-, -COO-(CH2)2- or -C≡C-.

[0312] It should be noted that Z present in the molecule is preferably p1 and Z p2 Only one of them is -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -C2H4-, -COO-, -OCO-, -COOC2H4-, -OCOC2H4-, -C2H4OCO-, -C2H4COO-, -CH=CH-, -(CH2)2-COO-, -(CH2)2-OCO-, -OCO-(CH2)2-, -CH=CH-COO-, -COO-CH=CH-, -OCOCH=CH-, -COO-(CH2)2- or -C≡C-, and all the others are single bonds; it is more preferred that Z present in the moleculep1 and Z p2 Only one of them is -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -C2H4-, -COO- or -OCO-, and the others are all single bonds; it is further preferred that Z present in the molecule p1 and Z p2 All are single keys.

[0313] In addition, it is preferred that Z present in the molecule p1 and Z p2 Among them, only one is a linking group selected from the group consisting of -CH=CH-COO-, -COO-CH=CH-, -(CH2)2-COO-, -(CH2)2-OCO-, -O-CO-(CH2)2-, and -COO-(CH2)2-, and the others are all single bonds.

[0314] Sp p1 and Sp p2 Each independently represents a single bond or a spacer group, and the spacer group is preferably an alkylene group having 1 to 30 carbon atoms. Among them, as for the -CH2- in the alkylene group, as long as the oxygen atoms are not directly connected to each other, it can be substituted by -O-, -CO-, -COO-, -OCO-, -CH=CH- or -C≡C-, and the hydrogen atom in the alkylene group can be substituted by a halogen atom.

[0315] Among them, Sp p1 and Sp p2 Each independently is preferably a linear alkylene group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or a single bond.

[0316] A p1 , A p2 and A p3 Each independently is preferably a 1,4-phenylene group or a 1,4-cyclohexylene group, and more preferably a 1,4-phenylene group.

[0317] In order to improve the compatibility with liquid crystal molecules (liquid crystal compounds), the 1,4-phenylene group is preferably substituted with one fluorine atom, one methyl group or one methoxy group.

[0318] The amount of the polymerizable compound contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably 0.05 to 10 mass %, more preferably 0.1 to 8 mass %, further preferably 0.1 to 5 mass %, further preferably 0.1 to 3 mass %, further preferably 0.2 to 2 mass %, further preferably 0.2 to 1.3 mass %, particularly preferably 0.2 to 1 mass %, and most preferably 0.2 to 0.56 mass %.

[0319] The preferred lower limit is 0.01 mass%, 0.03 mass%, 0.05 mass%, 0.08 mass%, 0.1 mass%, 0.15 mass%, 0.2 mass%, 0.25 mass%, and 0.3 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 5 mass%, 3 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 1.2 mass%, 1 mass%, 0.8 mass%, and 0.5 mass%.

[0320] If the amount of the polymerizable compound is small, it is difficult to show the effect of adding the polymerizable compound to the liquid crystal composition. For example, depending on the type of liquid crystal molecules and alignment aids, the alignment constraint of the liquid crystal molecules is weak or weakened over time. On the other hand, if the amount of the polymerizable compound is too much, for example, depending on the illumination of ultraviolet rays, the amount of the polymerizable compound remaining after curing increases, the curing takes time, and the reliability of the liquid crystal composition decreases. Therefore, it is preferred to consider their balance to set the amount of the polymerizable compound.

[0321] Preferred examples of the polymerizable compound represented by the general formula (P) include polymerizable compounds represented by the following formulae (P-1-1) to (P-1-46).

[0322] [Chemistry 46]

[0323]

[0324] [Chemistry 47]

[0325]

[0326] [Chemistry 48]

[0327]

[0328] [Chemistry 49]

[0329]

[0330] [Chemistry 50]

[0331]

[0332] Where P p11 , P p12 、Sp p11 and Sp p12 Indicates that P in the general formula (P) p1 , P p2 、Sp p1 and Sp p2 Same meaning.

[0333] Furthermore, preferred examples of the polymerizable compound represented by the general formula (P) include polymerizable compounds represented by the following formulae (P-2-1) to (P-2-12).

[0334] [Chemistry 51]

[0335]

[0336] Where P p21 , P p22 、Sp p21 and Sp p22 Indicates that P in the general formula (P) p1 , P p2 、Sp p1 and Sp p2 Same meaning.

[0337] Furthermore, preferred examples of the polymerizable compound represented by the general formula (P) include polymerizable compounds represented by the following formulae (P-3-1) to (P-3-15).

[0338] [Chemistry 52]

[0339]

[0340] [Chemistry 53]

[0341]

[0342] Where P p31 , P p32 、Sp p31 and Sp p32 Indicates that P in the general formula (P) p1 , P p2 、Sp p1 and Sp p2 Same meaning.

[0343] Furthermore, preferred examples of the polymerizable compound represented by the general formula (P) include polymerizable compounds represented by the following formulae (P-4-1) to (P-4-19).

[0344] [Chemistry 54]

[0345]

[0346] [Chemistry 55]

[0347]

[0348] [Chemistry 56]

[0349]

[0350] [Chemistry 57]

[0351]

[0352] Where P p41 , P p42 、Sp p41 and Sp p42 Indicates that P in the general formula (P) p1 , P p2 、Sp p1 and Sp p2 Same meaning.

[0353] ((Liquid crystal molecules))

[0354] The liquid crystal molecules have negative dielectric anisotropy and preferably contain at least one of the compounds represented by general formulae (N-1) to (N-3).

[0355] [Chemistry 58]

[0356]

[0357] In the formula, R N11 , R N12 , R N21 , R N22 , R N31 and R N32 Each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups present in the alkyl group may each independently be substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-.

[0358] A N11 , A N12 , A N21 , A N22 , A N31 and A N32 each independently represents a group selected from the group consisting of group (a), group (b), group (c) and group (d),

[0359] (a) 1,4-cyclohexylene (any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the group may be replaced by -O-);

[0360] (b) 1,4-phenylene (any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups in the group may be substituted with -N=);

[0361] (c) naphthalene-2,6-diyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl or decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl (any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups in the group may be substituted with -N=);

[0362] (d) 1,4-cyclohexenylene,

[0363] The above-mentioned group (a), group (b), group (c) and group (d) may each independently be substituted by a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom.

[0364] Z N11 , Z N12 , Z N21 , Z N22 , Z N31 and Z N32 Each independently represents a single bond, -CH2CH2-, -(CH2)4-, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCF2-, -CF2O-, -CH=N-N=CH-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-.

[0365] X N21 represents a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom.

[0366] T N31 It represents -CH2- or oxygen atom.

[0367] n N11 、n N12 、n N21 、n N22 、n N31 and n N32 Each independently represents an integer from 0 to 3, and n N11 +n N12 、n N21 +n N22 and n N31 +n N32 Each independently is 1, 2 or 3, A N11 ~A N32 , Z N11 ~Z N32 When there are multiple ones, they may be the same or different.

[0368] R N11 , R N12 , R N21 , R N22 , R N31 and R N32Each independently is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, further preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, particularly preferably an alkyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 3 carbon atoms, and most preferably an alkenyl group having 3 carbon atoms (propenyl).

[0369] Furthermore, when they are bonded to a ring structure that is a benzene ring (aromatic ring), they are preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms. When they are bonded to a cyclohexane ring, a pyran ring, a dicyclopentane ... In the case of a saturated ring structure such as an alkane ring, it is preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms. In order to stabilize the nematic phase, the number of carbon atoms (the total number of carbon atoms and the number of oxygen atoms when oxygen atoms are contained) is preferably 5 or less, and a linear chain is also preferred.

[0370] The alkenyl group is preferably selected from groups represented by any one of the following formulae (R1) to (R5).

[0371] [Chemistry 59]

[0372]

[0373] The black dots in the formulas represent carbon atoms in the ring structure.

[0374] A N11 , A N12 , A N21 , A N22 , A N31 and A N32 Independently of each other, when it is necessary to increase Δn, aromatic groups are preferred; and in order to improve the response speed, aliphatic groups are preferred.

[0375] Specifically, A N11 , A N12 , A N21 , A N22 , A N31 and A N32Each independently preferably is a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene, 1,4-phenylene, 2-fluoro-1,4-phenylene, 3-fluoro-1,4-phenylene, 3,5-difluoro-1,4-phenylene, 2,3-difluoro-1,4-phenylene, 1,4-cyclohexenylene, 1,4-bicyclo[2.2.2]octylene, piperidine-1,4-diyl, naphthalene-2,6-diyl, decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl or 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, more preferably any of the groups represented by formula (60) below, and still more preferably a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene, 1,4-cyclohexenylene or 1,4-phenylene.

[0376] [Chemistry 60]

[0377]

[0378] Z N11 , Z N12 , Z N21 , Z N22 , Z N31 and Z N32 Each independently is preferably -CH2O-, -CF2O-, -CH2CH2-, -CF2CF2- or a single bond, more preferably -CH2O-, -CH2CH2- or a single bond, and still more preferably -CH2O- or a single bond.

[0379] X N21 A fluorine atom is preferred.

[0380] T N31 Preferred is an oxygen atom.

[0381] n N11 +n N12 、n N21 +n N22 and n N31 +n N32 Preferably, n is 1 or 2. Specifically, preferably n N11 is 1 and n N12 The combination of 0, n N11 is 2 and n N12 The combination of 0, n N11 is 1 and n N12 The combination of 1, n N21 is 1 and n N22 The combination of 0, n N21 is 2 and n N22 The combination of 0, n N31 is 1 and n N32 The combination of 0, n N31 is 2 and n N32 A combination of 0.

[0382] The amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1) to (N-3) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 10 mass%, 20 mass%, 30 mass%, 40 mass%, 50 mass%, 55 mass%, 60 mass%, 65 mass%, 70 mass%, 75 mass%, 80 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 95 mass%, 85 mass%, 75 mass%, 65 mass%, 55 mass%, 45 mass%, 35 mass%, 25 mass%, 20 mass%.

[0383] While keeping the viscosity (η) of the liquid crystal composition low and improving the response speed, the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1) to (N-3) preferably has a low lower limit and a low upper limit. Furthermore, while keeping the nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (Tni) of the liquid crystal composition high and improving the temperature stability, the amount preferably has a low lower limit and a low upper limit. In addition, in order to keep the driving voltage of the liquid crystal display element low and increase the dielectric anisotropy (Δε) of the liquid crystal composition, the amount preferably has a high lower limit and a high upper limit.

[0384] Examples of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1) include compounds represented by the following general formulae (N-1a) to (N-1g).

[0385] [Chemistry 61]

[0386]

[0387] In the formula, R N11 and R N12 Indicates that R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0388] n Na11 Represents 0 or 1.

[0389] n Nb11 Indicates 1 or 2.

[0390] n Nc11 Represents 0 or 1.

[0391] n Nd11 Indicates 1 or 2.

[0392] n Ne11 Indicates 1 or 2.

[0393] n Nf12 Indicates 1 or 2.

[0394] n Ng11 Indicates 1 or 2.

[0395] ANe11 It represents a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group.

[0396] A Ng11 represents a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-cyclohexenylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group, and at least one of them represents a 1,4-cyclohexenylene group.

[0397] Z Ne11 represents a single bond or an ethylene group, and at least one of them represents an ethylene group.

[0398] Among them, A Ne11 , Z Ne11 and / or A Ng11 When there are multiple ones, they may be the same or different.

[0399] More specifically, the compound represented by the general formula (N-1) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the following general formulae (N-1-1) to (N-1-21).

[0400] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-1) is the following compound.

[0401] [Chemistry 62]

[0402]

[0403] In the formula, R N111 and R N112 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0404] R N111 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably a propyl group, a pentyl group or a vinyl group.

[0405] R N112 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethoxy group or a butoxy group.

[0406] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-1) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0407] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0408] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0409] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-1) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high value; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high value; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a low value. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferred to set the amount to an intermediate level.

[0410] The preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 25 mass%, 27 mass%, 30 mass%, 33 mass%, 35 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 50 mass%, 40 mass%, 38 mass%, 35 mass%, 33 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 7 mass%, 6 mass%, 5 mass%, 3 mass%.

[0411] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-1) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the following formulas (N-1-1.1) to (N-1-1.25), more preferably selected from the compounds represented by the following formulas (N-1-1.1) to (N-1-1.4), and even more preferably selected from the compounds represented by the following formulas (N-1-1.1) and (N-1-1.3).

[0412] [Chemistry 63]

[0413]

[0414] The compounds represented by formula (N-1-1.1) to (N-1-1.25) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0415] The amount of the compound represented by formula (N-1-1.1) to (N-1-1.25) contained in the liquid crystal composition alone or in combination is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 25 mass%, 27 mass%, 30 mass%, 33 mass%, 35 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 50 mass%, 40 mass%, 38 mass%, 35 mass%, 33 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 7 mass%, 6 mass%, 5 mass%, 3 mass%.

[0416] The compounds represented by the general formula (N-1-2) are the following compounds.

[0417] [Chemistry 64]

[0418]

[0419] In the formula, R N121 and R N122 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0420] R N121 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group or a pentyl group.

[0421] R N122 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably a methyl group, a propyl group, a methoxy group, an ethoxy group, or a propoxy group.

[0422] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-2) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0423] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0424] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0425] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-2) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high level; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a low level; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high level. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0426] The preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 25 mass%, 27 mass%, 30 mass%, 33 mass%, 35 mass%, 37 mass%, 40 mass%, 42 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 50 mass%, 48 mass%, 45 mass%, 43 mass%, 40 mass%, 38 mass%, 35 mass%, 33 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 7 mass%, 6 mass%, 5 mass%.

[0427] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-2) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the following formulas (N-1-2.1) to (N-1-2.25), and is more preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-2.3) to (N-1-2.7), formula (N-1-2.10), formula (N-1-2.11), formula (N-1-2.13) and formula (N-1-2.20).

[0428] It should be noted that, regarding the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-2), when emphasis is placed on the improvement of Δε, it is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulas (N-1-2.3) to (N-1-2.7); when emphasis is placed on T ni In the case of improvement of the reaction speed, the compound represented by the formula (N-1-2.20) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formula (N-1-2.10), the formula (N-1-2.11) and the formula (N-1-2.13). When emphasis is placed on improvement of the response speed, the compound represented by the formula (N-1-2.20) is preferably used.

[0429] [Chemistry 65]

[0430]

[0431] The compounds represented by formula (N-1-2.1) to (N-1-2.25) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0432] The amount of the compound represented by formula (N-1-2.1) to (N-1-2.25) contained in the liquid crystal composition alone or in combination is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 25 mass%, 27 mass%, 30 mass%, 33 mass%, 35 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 50 mass%, 40 mass%, 38 mass%, 35 mass%, 33 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 7 mass%, 6 mass%, 5 mass%, 3 mass%.

[0433] The compounds represented by the general formula (N-1-3) are the following compounds.

[0434] [Chemistry 66]

[0435]

[0436] In the formula, R N131 and R N132 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0437] R N131 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group or a butyl group.

[0438] R N132 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 3 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably a 1-propenyl group, an ethoxy group, a propoxy group, or a butoxy group.

[0439] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-3) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0440] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0441] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0442] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-3) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high level; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high level; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high level. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0443] The preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, and 13 mass%.

[0444] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-3) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-3.1) to (N-1-3.21), more preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-3.1) to (N-1-3.7) and formula (N-1-3.21), and further preferably selected from the compounds represented by formula (N-1-3.1), formula (N-1-3.2), formula (N-1-3.3), formula (N-1-3.4) and formula (N-1-3.6).

[0445] [Chemistry 67]

[0446]

[0447] The compounds represented by formulae (N-1-3.1) to (N-1-3.4), formula (N-1-3.6) and formula (N-1-3.21) may be used alone or in combination of two or more. It is preferred to use the compound represented by formula (N-1-3.1) and the compound represented by formula (N-1-3.2) in combination, and to use two or three selected from formulae (N-1-3.3), formula (N-1-3.4) and formula (N-1-3.6) in combination.

[0448] The amount of the compounds represented by formula (N-1-3.1) to (N-1-3.4), formula (N-1-3.6) and formula (N-1-3.21) contained in the liquid crystal composition alone or in combination is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, and 13 mass%.

[0449] The compounds represented by the general formula (N-1-4) are the following compounds.

[0450] [Chemistry 68]

[0451]

[0452] In the formula, R N141 and R N142 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0453] R N141 and R N142 Each independently is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably a methyl group, a propyl group, an ethoxy group, or a butoxy group.

[0454] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-4) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0455] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0456] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0457] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-4) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high value; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high value; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a low value. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0458] The preferred lower limit is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 11 mass%, 10 mass%, and 8 mass%.

[0459] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-4) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-4.1) to (N-1-4.24), more preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-4.1) to (N-1-4.4), and further preferably selected from the compounds represented by formula (N-1-4.1), formula (N-1-4.2) and formula (N-1-4.4).

[0460] [Chemistry 69]

[0461]

[0462] The compounds represented by formula (N-1-4.1) to (N-1-4.24) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0463] The amount of the compound represented by formula (N-1-4.1) to (N-1-4.24) contained in the liquid crystal composition alone or in combination is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 11 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%.

[0464] The compounds represented by the general formula (N-1-5) are the following compounds.

[0465] [Chemistry 70]

[0466]

[0467] In the formula, R N151 and R N152Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0468] R N151 and R N152 Each independently is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group.

[0469] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-5) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0470] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0471] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0472] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-5) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high level; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a low level; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high level. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0473] The preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 8 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 33 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, and 13 mass%.

[0474] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-5) is preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (N-1-5.1) to (N-1-5.12), and more preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (N-1-5.1), (N-1-5.2) and (N-1-5.4).

[0475] [Chemistry 71]

[0476]

[0477] The compounds represented by formula (N-1-5.1), formula (N-1-5.2), and formula (N-1-5.4) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0478] The amount of the compounds represented by formula (N-1-5.1), formula (N-1-5.2) and formula (N-1-5.4) contained in the liquid crystal composition alone or in combination is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 8 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 33 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%.

[0479] The compounds represented by the general formula (N-1-10) are the following compounds.

[0480] [Chemistry 72]

[0481]

[0482] In the formula, R N1101 and R N1102 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0483] R N1101 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a vinyl group or a 1-propenyl group.

[0484] R N1102 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethoxy group, a propoxy group, or a butoxy group.

[0485] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-10) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0486] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0487] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0488] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-10) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high value; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high value; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a low value. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0489] The preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, and 13 mass%.

[0490] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-10) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-10.1) to (N-1-10.14), more preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-10.1) to (N-1-10.5), and further preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-10.1) and (N-1-10.2).

[0491] [Chemistry 73]

[0492]

[0493] The compounds represented by formula (N-1-10.1) and formula (N-1-10.2) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0494] The amount of the compounds represented by formula (N-1-10.1) and formula (N-1-10.2) contained in the liquid crystal composition alone or in combination is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%.

[0495] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-11) is the following compound.

[0496] [Chemistry 74]

[0497]

[0498] In the formula, R N1111 and R N1112 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0499] R N1111 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a vinyl group or a 1-propenyl group.

[0500] R N1112It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethoxy group, a propoxy group, or a butoxy group.

[0501] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-11) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0502] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0503] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0504] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-11) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high level; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a low level; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high level. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0505] The preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, and 13 mass%.

[0506] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-11) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-11.1) to (N-1-11.14), more preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-11.1) to (N-1-11.14), and further preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-11.2) and (N-1-11.4).

[0507] [Chemistry 75]

[0508]

[0509] The compounds represented by formula (N-1-11.2) and formula (N-1-11.4) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0510] The amount of the compounds represented by formula (N-1-11.2) and formula (N-1-11.4) contained in the liquid crystal composition alone or in combination is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%.

[0511] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-12) is the following compound.

[0512] [Chemistry 76]

[0513]

[0514] In the formula, R N1121 and R N1122 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0515] R N1121 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group or a butyl group.

[0516] R N1122 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethoxy group, a propoxy group, or a butoxy group.

[0517] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-12) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0518] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0519] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0520] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-12) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high value; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high value; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a low value. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0521] The preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, and 13 mass%.

[0522] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-13) is the following compound.

[0523] [Chemistry 77]

[0524]

[0525] In the formula, R N1131 and R N1132 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0526] R N1131 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group or a butyl group.

[0527] R N1132 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethoxy group, a propoxy group, or a butoxy group.

[0528] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-13) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0529] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0530] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0531] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-13) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high level; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high level; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high level. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0532] The preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, and 13 mass%.

[0533] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-14) is the following compound.

[0534] [Chemistry 78]

[0535]

[0536] In the formula, R N1141 and R N1142 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0537] R N1141 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group or a butyl group.

[0538] R N1142 It is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethoxy group, a propoxy group, or a butoxy group.

[0539] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-14) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0540] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0541] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0542] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-14) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high level; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high level; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is good when it is set to a high level. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0543] The preferred lower limit is 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, and 13 mass%.

[0544] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-14) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-14.1) to (N-1-14.5), more preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-14.1) to (N-1-14.3), and further preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-14.2) and (N-1-14.3).

[0545] [Chemistry 79]

[0546]

[0547] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-22) is the following compound.

[0548] [Chemistry 80]

[0549]

[0550] In the formula, R N1221 and R N1222 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (N-1) N11 and R N12 Same meaning.

[0551] R N1221 and R N1222 Each independently is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group or a butyl group.

[0552] The compound represented by the general formula (N-1-22) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0553] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0554] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0555] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (N-1-22) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the improvement of Δε is emphasized, it is preferably set to a high level; when the solubility at low temperature is emphasized, the effect is better when it is set to a high level; when Tni is emphasized, the effect is better when it is set to a high level. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferably set to an intermediate level.

[0556] The preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, and 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, and 5 mass%.

[0557] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-22) is preferably selected from compounds represented by formulas (N-1-22.1) to (N-1-22.12), more preferably selected from compounds represented by formulas (N-1-22.1) to (N-1-22.5), and further preferably selected from compounds represented by formulas (N-1-22.1) to (N-1-22.4).

[0558] [Chemistry 81]

[0559]

[0560] The liquid crystal composition may further contain at least one compound (liquid crystal molecule) selected from the group consisting of the following general formula (L). The compound represented by the general formula (L) has no dielectric anisotropy or has extremely low dielectric anisotropy. Therefore, various properties of the liquid crystal composition can be adjusted by adding the compound to the liquid crystal composition.

[0561] [Chemistry 82]

[0562]

[0563] In the formula, R L1 and R L2 Each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups present in the alkyl group may each independently be substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-.

[0564] n L1 Represents 0, 1, 2, or 3.

[0565] A L1 , A L2 and A L3each independently represents a group selected from the group consisting of group (a), group (b) and group (c),

[0566] (a) 1,4-cyclohexylene (any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the group may be replaced by -O-);

[0567] (b) 1,4-phenylene (any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups in the group may be substituted with -N=);

[0568] (c) naphthalene-2,6-diyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl or decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl (any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups in the group may be substituted with -N=),

[0569] The above-mentioned group (a), group (b) and group (c) may each independently be substituted by a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom.

[0570] Z L1 and Z L2 Each independently represents a single bond, -CH2CH2-, -(CH2)4-, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCF2-, -CF2O-, -CH=N-N=CH-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-.

[0571] n L1 2 or 3 and there are multiple A L2 In the case of , they may be the same or different.

[0572] n L1 is 2 or 3 and there are multiple Z L3 In the case of , they may be the same or different.

[0573] However, compounds represented by general formula (N-1), (N-2) and (N-3) are excluded.

[0574] The compound represented by the general formula (L) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0575] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on desired performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0576] Regarding the type of compound used, for example, in one embodiment of the present invention, it is 1. Alternatively, regarding the type of compound used, in other embodiments of the present invention, it is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more.

[0577] The amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L) contained in the liquid crystal composition can be appropriately adjusted according to the required properties such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, birefringence, process adaptability, dripping marks, screen burn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

[0578] The preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 10 mass%, 20 mass%, 30 mass%, 40 mass%, 50 mass%, 55 mass%, 60 mass%, 65 mass%, 70 mass%, 75 mass%, 80 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 95 mass%, 85 mass%, 75 mass%, 65 mass%, 55 mass%, 45 mass%, 35 mass%, 25 mass%.

[0579] In the case where the viscosity of the liquid crystal composition needs to be kept low, the response speed needs to be improved, the above-mentioned lower limit is preferably high and the upper limit is also high. Further, in the case where the Tni of the liquid crystal composition needs to be kept high, the temperature stability needs to be improved, the above-mentioned lower limit is preferably high and the upper limit is also high. In addition, in the case where the driving voltage of the liquid crystal composition is low and the dielectric constant anisotropy needs to be increased, the above-mentioned lower limit is preferably low and the upper limit is also low.

[0580] When reliability is important, R L1 and R L2 Both are alkyl groups; when reducing volatility is important, R L1 and R L2 Both are alkoxy groups; when it is important to reduce the viscosity of the liquid crystal composition, R L1 and R L2 At least one of them is an alkenyl group.

[0581] The number of halogen atoms present in the molecule is preferably 0, 1, 2 or 3, more preferably 0 or 1, and further preferably 1 when compatibility with other liquid crystal molecules is important.

[0582] R L1 and R L2 When it is bonded to a ring structure that is a benzene ring (aromatic ring), it is preferably a straight-chain alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a straight-chain alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms; when it is bonded to a cyclohexane ring, a pyran ring, a dicyclopentane ... In the case of a saturated ring structure such as an alkane ring, it is preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms. In order to stabilize the nematic phase, the number of carbon atoms (the total number of carbon atoms and the number of oxygen atoms when oxygen atoms are contained) is preferably 5 or less, and a linear chain is also preferred.

[0583] The alkenyl group is preferably selected from groups represented by any one of the following formulae (R1) to (R5).

[0584] [Chemistry 83]

[0585]

[0586] The black dots in the formulas represent carbon atoms in the ring structure.

[0587] For n L1 , preferably 0 when the response speed is important; preferably 2 or 3 to improve the upper limit temperature of the nematic phase; and preferably 1 to achieve a balance between them. In addition, in order to satisfy the characteristics required as a liquid crystal composition, it is preferred to use n L1 The compound is represented by a plurality of general formula (L) having different values.

[0588] A L1 , A L2 and A L3 Independently of each other, when it is necessary to increase Δn, aromatic groups are preferred; and in order to improve the response speed, aliphatic groups are preferred.

[0589] Specifically, A L1 , A L2 and A L3 Each independently preferably is a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene, 1,4-phenylene, 2-fluoro-1,4-phenylene, 3-fluoro-1,4-phenylene, 3,5-difluoro-1,4-phenylene, 1,4-cyclohexenylene, 1,4-bicyclo[2.2.2]octylene, piperidine-1,4-diyl, naphthalene-2,6-diyl, decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl or 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, more preferably any of the groups represented by the formula (84) below, and still more preferably a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene or 1,4-phenylene.

[0590] [Chemistry 84]

[0591]

[0592] Z L1 and Z L2 When emphasis is placed on response speed, a single bond is preferred.

[0593] The compound represented by the general formula (L) preferably contains 0 or 1 halogen atom in the molecule.

[0594] More specifically, the compound represented by the general formula (L) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the following general formulae (L-1) to (L-7).

[0595] The compound represented by the general formula (L-1) is the following compound.

[0596] [Chemistry 85]

[0597]

[0598] In the formula, R L11 and R L12 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (L) L1 and R L2 Same meaning.

[0599] R L11 and R L12 Each independently is preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0600] The compound represented by the general formula (L-1) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0601] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0602] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0603] The amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-1) contained in the liquid crystal composition is set as follows. That is, its preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 2 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, 15 mass%, 20 mass%, 25 mass%, 30 mass%, 35 mass%, 40 mass%, 45 mass%, 50 mass%, 55 mass%. On the other hand, its preferred upper limit is 95 mass%, 90 mass%, 85 mass%, 80 mass%, 75 mass%, 70 mass%, 65 mass%, 60 mass%, 55 mass%, 50 mass%, 45 mass%, 40 mass%, 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 25 mass%.

[0604] In the case where the viscosity of the liquid crystal composition needs to be kept low, the response speed needs to be improved, the above-mentioned lower limit is preferably high and the upper limit is high. Further, in the case where the Tni of the liquid crystal composition needs to be kept high, the temperature stability needs to be improved, the above-mentioned lower limit is preferably an intermediate level and the upper limit is preferably an intermediate level. In addition, in the case where the driving voltage of the liquid crystal composition is low and the dielectric constant anisotropy is increased, the above-mentioned lower limit is preferably low and the upper limit is also low.

[0605] The compound represented by the general formula (L-1) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the general formula (L-1-1).

[0606] [Chemistry 86]

[0607]

[0608] In the formula, R L12 Indicates that R in the general formula (L-1) L12 Same meaning.

[0609] The compound represented by general formula (L-1-1) is preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (L-1-1.1) to (L-1-1.3), more preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (L-1-1.2) and (L-1-1.3), and further preferably a compound represented by formula (L-1-1.3).

[0610] [Chemistry 87]

[0611]

[0612] The amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-1.3) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, its preferred lower limit is 1 mass %, 2 mass %, 3 mass %, 5 mass %, 7 mass %, 10 mass %. On the other hand, its preferred upper limit is 20 mass %, 15 mass %, 13 mass %, 10 mass %, 8 mass %, 7 mass %, 6 mass %, 5 mass %, 3 mass %.

[0613] The compound represented by the general formula (L-1) is preferably selected from compounds represented by the general formula (L-1-2).

[0614] [Chemistry 88]

[0615]

[0616] In the formula, R L12 Indicates that R in the general formula (L-1) L12 Same meaning.

[0617] The amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-1-2) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 25 mass%, 27 mass%, 30 mass%, 35 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 60 mass%, 55 mass%, 50 mass%, 45 mass%, 42 mass%, 40 mass%, 38 mass%, 35 mass%, 33 mass%, 30 mass%.

[0618] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-1-2) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulae (L-1-2.1) to (L-1-2.4), and more preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulae (L-1-2.2) to (L-1-2.4).

[0619] In particular, the compound represented by formula (L-1-2.2) can particularly improve the response speed of the liquid crystal composition and is therefore preferred. In addition, when a higher Tni is required than the response speed, it is preferred to use a compound represented by formula (L-1-2.3) or formula (L-1-2.4). It should be noted that in order to achieve good solubility at low temperatures, the total amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-2.3) and the compound represented by formula (L-1-2.4) contained in the liquid crystal composition is not preferably 30% by mass or more.

[0620] [Chemistry 89]

[0621]

[0622] The amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-2.2) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 10 mass%, 15 mass%, 18 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 25 mass%, 27 mass%, 30 mass%, 33 mass%, 35 mass%, 38 mass%, 40 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 60 mass%, 55 mass%, 50 mass%, 45 mass%, 43 mass%, 40 mass%, 38 mass%, 35 mass%, 32 mass%, 30 mass%, 27 mass%, 25 mass%, 22 mass%.

[0623] The total amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-1.3) and the compound represented by formula (L-1-2.2) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 10 mass%, 15 mass%, 20 mass%, 25 mass%, 27 mass%, 30 mass%, 35 mass%, 40 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 60 mass%, 55 mass%, 50 mass%, 45 mass%, 43 mass%, 40 mass%, 38 mass%, 35 mass%, 32 mass%, 30 mass%, 27 mass%, 25 mass%, 22 mass%.

[0624] The compound represented by the general formula (L-1) is preferably selected from compounds represented by the general formula (L-1-3).

[0625] [Chemistry 90]

[0626]

[0627] In the formula, R L13 and R L14 Each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms.

[0628] R L13 and R L14Each independently is preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0629] The amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-3) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 25 mass%, 30 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 60 mass%, 55 mass%, 50 mass%, 45 mass%, 40 mass%, 37 mass%, 35 mass%, 33 mass%, 30 mass%, 27 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 17 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%.

[0630] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (L-1-3) is preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (L-1-3.1) to (L-1-3.13), and more preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (L-1-3.1), (L-1-3.3) and (L-1-3.4).

[0631] In particular, the compound represented by formula (L-1-3.1) can particularly improve the response speed of the liquid crystal composition and is therefore preferred. In addition, when a higher Tni is required than the response speed, it is preferred to use a compound represented by formula (L-1-3.3), formula (L-1-3.4), formula (L-1-3.11) or formula (L-1-3.12). It should be noted that in order to achieve good solubility at low temperatures, the total amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-3.3), the compound represented by formula (L-1-3.4), the compound represented by formula (L-1-3.11) and the compound represented by formula (L-1-3.13) contained in the liquid crystal composition is not preferably 20% by mass or more.

[0632] [Chemistry 91]

[0633]

[0634] The amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-3.1) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 2 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 18 mass%, 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 20 mass%, 17 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 7 mass%, 6 mass%.

[0635] The compound represented by the general formula (L-1) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the general formula (L-1-4) and the general formula (L-1-5).

[0636] [Chemistry 92]

[0637]

[0638] In the formula, R L15 and R L16 Each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms.

[0639] R L15 and R L16 Each independently is preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0640] The amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-4) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 1 mass %, 5 mass %, 10 mass %, 13 mass %, 15 mass %, 17 mass %, 20 mass %. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 25 mass %, 23 mass %, 20 mass %, 17 mass %, 15 mass %, 13 mass %, 10 mass %.

[0641] The amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-5) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, its preferred lower limit is 1 mass %, 5 mass %, 10 mass %, 13 mass %, 15 mass %, 17 mass %, 20 mass %. On the other hand, its preferred upper limit is 25 mass %, 23 mass %, 20 mass %, 17 mass %, 15 mass %, 13 mass %, 10 mass %.

[0642] Furthermore, the compounds represented by general formulae (L-1-4) and (L-1-5) are preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (L-1-4.1) to (L-1-5.3), and more preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (L-1-4.2) and (L-1-5.2).

[0643] [Chemistry 93]

[0644]

[0645] The amount of the compound represented by formula (L-1-4.2) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 2 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, 13 mass%, 15 mass%, 18 mass%, 20 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 20 mass%, 17 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 7 mass%, 6 mass%.

[0646] It is also preferred to use two or more compounds selected from the group consisting of the compounds represented by Formula (L-1-1.3), Formula (L-1-2.2), Formula (L-1-3.1), Formula (L-1-3.3), Formula (L-1-3.4), Formula (L-1-3.11) and Formula (L-1-3.12) in combination, or to use two or more compounds selected from the group consisting of the compounds represented by Formula (L-1-1.3), Formula (L-1-2.2), Formula (L-1-3.1), Formula (L-1-3.3), Formula (L-1-3.4) and Formula (L-1-4.2) in combination.

[0647] The total amount of these compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, its preferred lower limit is 1 mass %, 2 mass %, 3 mass %, 5 mass %, 7 mass %, 10 mass %, 13 mass %, 15 mass %, 18 mass %, 20 mass %, 23 mass %, 25 mass %, 27 mass %, 30 mass %, 33 mass %, 35 mass %. On the other hand, its preferred upper limit is 80 mass %, 70 mass %, 60 mass %, 50 mass %, 45 mass %, 40 mass %, 37 mass %, 35 mass %, 33 mass %, 30 mass %, 28 mass %, 25 mass %, 23 mass %, 20 mass %.

[0648] When emphasis is placed on the reliability of the liquid crystal composition, it is preferred to use in combination two or more of the compounds represented by formula (L-1-3.1), formula (L-1-3.3) and formula (L-1-3.4); when emphasis is placed on the response speed of the liquid crystal composition, it is preferred to use in combination two or more of the compounds represented by formula (L-1-1.3) and formula (L-1-2.2).

[0649] The compound represented by the general formula (L-1) is preferably selected from compounds represented by the general formula (L-1-6).

[0650] [Chemistry 94]

[0651]

[0652] In the formula, R L17 and R L18 Each independently represents a methyl group or a hydrogen atom.

[0653] The amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-1-6) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 15 mass%, 17 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 25 mass%, 27 mass%, 30 mass%, 35 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 60 mass%, 55 mass%, 50 mass%, 45 mass%, 42 mass%, 40 mass%, 38 mass%, 35 mass%, 33 mass%, 30 mass%.

[0654] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-1-6) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulae (L-1-6.1) to (L-1-6.3).

[0655] [Chemistry 95]

[0656]

[0657] The compound represented by the general formula (L-2) is the following compound.

[0658] [Chemistry 96]

[0659]

[0660] In the formula, R L21 and R L22 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (L) L1 and R L2 Same meaning.

[0661] R L21 An alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms is preferred.

[0662] R L22 An alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms is preferred.

[0663] The compound represented by the general formula (L-2) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0664] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0665] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0666] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-2) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when the solubility at low temperature is important, the effect is good; conversely, when the response speed is important, the effect is good when the amount is low. Furthermore, in the case of improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferred to set the amount range to an intermediate level.

[0667] The preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 2 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, and 10 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 20 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 7 mass%, 6 mass%, 5 mass%, and 3 mass%.

[0668] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (L-2) is preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (L-2.1) to (L-2.6), and more preferably selected from compounds represented by formulae (L-2.1), (L-2.3), (L-2.4) and (L-2.6).

[0669] [Chemistry 97]

[0670]

[0671] The compound represented by the general formula (L-3) is the following compound.

[0672] [Chemistry 98]

[0673]

[0674] In the formula, R L31 and R L32 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (L) L1 and R L2 Same meaning.

[0675] R L31 and R L32 Each independently is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

[0676] The compound represented by the general formula (L-3) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0677] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0678] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0679] The amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-3) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, its preferred lower limit is 1 mass %, 2 mass %, 3 mass %, 5 mass %, 7 mass %, 10 mass %. On the other hand, its preferred upper limit is 20 mass %, 15 mass %, 13 mass %, 10 mass %, 8 mass %, 7 mass %, 6 mass %, 5 mass %, 3 mass %.

[0680] Regarding the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-3) contained in the liquid crystal composition, when a high birefringence is obtained, the effect is better when it is set high; on the contrary, when a high Tni is emphasized, the effect is better when it is set low. Furthermore, when improving drip marks and screen burn-in characteristics, it is preferred to set the amount range to an intermediate level.

[0681] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-3) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulae (L-3.1) to (L-3.7), and more preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulae (L-3.2) to (L-3.5).

[0682] [Chemistry 99]

[0683]

[0684] The compound represented by the general formula (L-4) is the following compound.

[0685] [Chemical 100]

[0686]

[0687] In the formula, R L41 and R L42 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (L) L1 and R L2 Same meaning.

[0688] R L41 An alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms is preferred.

[0689] R L42 An alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms is preferred.

[0690] The compound represented by the general formula (L-4) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0691] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0692] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0693] The amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-4) contained in the liquid crystal composition can be appropriately adjusted according to the required properties such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, birefringence, process adaptability, dripping marks, screen burn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

[0694] The preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 2 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, 14 mass%, 16 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 26 mass%, 30 mass%, 35 mass%, 40 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 50 mass%, 40 mass%, 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 20 mass%, 15 mass%, 10 mass%, 5 mass%.

[0695] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-4) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulae (L-4.1) to (L-4.3).

[0696] [Chemistry 101]

[0697]

[0698] Depending on the required properties such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, birefringence, etc., the liquid crystal composition may contain a compound represented by formula (L-4.1), may contain a compound represented by formula (L-4.2), may contain both a compound represented by formula (L-4.1) and a compound represented by formula (L-4.2), or may contain all the compounds represented by formulas (L-4.1) to (L-4.3).

[0699] The amount of the compound represented by formula (L-4.1) or formula (L-4.2) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 9 mass%, 11 mass%, 12 mass%, 13 mass%, 18 mass%, 21 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 45 mass%, 40 mass%, 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%.

[0700] When the liquid crystal composition contains both the compound represented by formula (L-4.1) and the compound represented by formula (L-4.2), the total amount of the compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 15 mass%, 19 mass%, 24 mass%, 30 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 45 mass%, 40 mass%, 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%.

[0701] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-4) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulae (L-4.4) to (L-4.6), and is more preferably a compound represented by the formula (L-4.4).

[0702] [Chemistry 102]

[0703]

[0704] Depending on the required properties such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, birefringence, etc., the liquid crystal composition may contain a compound represented by formula (L-4.4), may contain a compound represented by formula (L-4.5), or may contain both a compound represented by formula (L-4.4) and a compound represented by formula (L-4.5).

[0705] The amount of the compound represented by formula (L-4.4) or formula (L-4.5) in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 9 mass%, 11 mass%, 12 mass%, 13 mass%, 18 mass%, 21 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 45 mass%, 40 mass%, 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%.

[0706] When the liquid crystal composition contains both the compound represented by formula (L-4.4) and the compound represented by formula (L-4.5), the total amount of the compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 15 mass%, 19 mass%, 24 mass%, 30 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 45 mass%, 40 mass%, 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 25 mass%, 23 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%.

[0707] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-4) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulae (L-4.7) to (L-4.10), and is particularly preferably a compound represented by the formula (L-4.9).

[0708] [Chemistry 103]

[0709]

[0710] The compound represented by the general formula (L-5) is the following compound.

[0711] [Chemistry 104]

[0712]

[0713] In the formula, R L51 and R L52 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (L) L1 and R L2 Same meaning.

[0714] R L51 An alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms is preferred.

[0715] R L52 An alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms is preferred.

[0716] The compound represented by the general formula (L-5) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0717] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0718] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0719] The amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-5) contained in the liquid crystal composition can be appropriately adjusted according to the required properties such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, birefringence, process adaptability, dripping marks, screen burn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

[0720] The preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 2 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, 14 mass%, 16 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 26 mass%, 30 mass%, 35 mass%, 40 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 50 mass%, 40 mass%, 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 20 mass%, 15 mass%, 10 mass%, 5 mass%.

[0721] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-5) is preferably a compound represented by the formula (L-5.1) or the formula (L-5.2), and is particularly preferably a compound represented by the formula (L-5.1).

[0722] The amount of each compound contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, its preferred lower limit is 1 mass %, 2 mass %, 3 mass %, 5 mass %, 7 mass %. On the other hand, its preferred upper limit is 20 mass %, 15 mass %, 13 mass %, 10 mass %, 9 mass %.

[0723] [Chemistry 105]

[0724]

[0725] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (L-5) is preferably a compound represented by formula (L-5.3) or formula (L-5.4).

[0726] The amount of each compound contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, its preferred lower limit is 1 mass %, 2 mass %, 3 mass %, 5 mass %, 7 mass %. On the other hand, its preferred upper limit is 20 mass %, 15 mass %, 13 mass %, 10 mass %, 9 mass %.

[0727] [Chemistry 106]

[0728]

[0729] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-5) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulae (L-5.5) to (L-5.7), and is particularly preferably a compound represented by the formula (L-5.7).

[0730] The amount of each compound contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, its preferred lower limit is 1% by mass, 2% by mass, 3% by mass, 5% by mass, and 7% by mass. On the other hand, its preferred upper limit is 20% by mass, 15% by mass, 13% by mass, 10% by mass, and 9% by mass.

[0731] [Chemistry 107]

[0732]

[0733] The compound represented by the general formula (L-6) is the following compound.

[0734] [Chemistry 108]

[0735]

[0736] In the formula, R L61 and R L62 Each independently represents the same as R in the general formula (L) L1 and R L2 Same meaning.

[0737] XL61 and X L62 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom.

[0738] R L61 and R L62 Each independently is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0739] Preferred X L61 and X L62 One of them is a fluorine atom and the other is a hydrogen atom.

[0740] The compound represented by the general formula (L-6) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0741] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence.

[0742] The types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0743] The amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-6) contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, the preferred lower limit is 1 mass%, 2 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, 14 mass%, 16 mass%, 20 mass%, 23 mass%, 26 mass%, 30 mass%, 35 mass%, 40 mass%. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit is 50 mass%, 40 mass%, 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 20 mass%, 15 mass%, 10 mass%, 5 mass%. It should be noted that, with respect to the amount of the compound represented by the general formula (L-6), when the focus is on increasing Δn, it is preferably more; when the focus is on precipitation at low temperature, it is preferably less.

[0744] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-6) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by formulae (L-6.1) to (L-6.9).

[0745] [Chemistry 109]

[0746]

[0747] The types of compounds that can be used in combination are not particularly limited, but it is preferred to select 1 to 3 compounds, and more preferably 1 to 4 compounds, from the compounds represented by formulae (L-6.1) to (L-6.9).

[0748] In addition, the wide molecular weight distribution of the compounds used in combination is also effective for solubility. Therefore, for example, it is preferable to select one compound from the compounds represented by formula (L-6.1) and formula (L-6.2), one compound from the compounds represented by formula (L-6.4) and formula (L-6.5), one compound from the compounds represented by formula (L-6.6) and formula (L-6.7), and one compound from the compounds represented by formula (L-6.8) and formula (L-6.9), and combine them appropriately.

[0749] Among them, compounds represented by Formula (L-6.1), Formula (L-6.3), Formula (L-6.4), Formula (L-6.6) and Formula (L-6.9) are preferred.

[0750] Furthermore, the compound represented by the general formula (L-6) is preferably selected from the compounds represented by the formulae (L-6.10) to (L-6.17), and is more preferably a compound represented by the formula (L-6.11).

[0751] [Chemistry 110]

[0752]

[0753] The amount of each compound contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably as follows. That is, its preferred lower limit is 1 mass %, 2 mass %, 3 mass %, 5 mass %, 7 mass %. On the other hand, its preferred upper limit is 20 mass %, 15 mass %, 13 mass %, 10 mass %, 9 mass %.

[0754] The above-described liquid crystal composition preferably does not contain a compound having a structure in which oxygen atoms are bonded to each other, such as a peracid (—CO—OO—) structure, in the molecule.

[0755] It should be noted that, when the reliability and long-term stability of the liquid crystal composition are important, the amount of the compound having a carbonyl group in the liquid crystal composition is preferably set to less than 5 mass %, more preferably to less than 3 mass %, further preferably to less than 1 mass %, and most preferably to substantially 0 (zero) mass %.

[0756] When stability based on UV irradiation is important, the amount of the compound substituted by a chlorine atom in the liquid crystal composition is preferably set to 15 mass % or less, more preferably to 10 mass % or less, further preferably to 8 mass % or less, further preferably to 5 mass % or less, particularly preferably to 3 mass % or less, and most preferably to substantially 0 (zero) mass %.

[0757] In addition, it is preferred that the amount of compounds in which all the ring structures in the molecule are 6-membered rings contained in the liquid crystal composition is large, specifically, preferably 80 mass % or more, more preferably 90 mass % or more, further preferably 95 mass % or more, and most preferably substantially 100 mass %.

[0758] In order to prevent or inhibit deterioration caused by oxidation of the liquid crystal composition, it is preferred to reduce the amount of the compound having a cyclohexene ring as a ring structure contained in the liquid crystal composition. Specifically, it is preferably set to 10 mass % or less, more preferably to 8 mass % or less, further preferably to 5 mass % or less, particularly preferably to 3 mass % or less, and most preferably to substantially 0 (zero) mass %.

[0759] Furthermore, in order to prevent or inhibit degradation caused by oxidation of the liquid crystal composition, it is preferred to reduce the amount of the compound having -CH=CH- as a connecting group contained in the liquid crystal composition. Specifically, it is preferably set to 10 mass % or less, more preferably to 5 mass % or less, and further preferably to substantially 0 (zero) mass %.

[0760] When emphasis is placed on improving the viscosity (η) of the liquid crystal composition and improving the nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (Tnⅰ), the amount of the compound having a 2-toluene-1,4-diyl group in which a hydrogen atom in the molecule can be substituted by a halogen atom contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably small. Specifically, it is preferably set to less than 10 mass %, more preferably to less than 5 mass %, and further preferably to substantially 0 (zero) mass %.

[0761] When the compound (liquid crystal molecule, etc.) contained in the liquid crystal composition has a cyclohexylene group having an alkenyl group bonded as a side chain, the number of carbon atoms of the alkenyl group is preferably 2 to 5. In addition, when the compound contained in the liquid crystal composition has a phenylene group having an alkenyl group bonded as a side chain, the number of carbon atoms of the alkenyl group is preferably 4 to 5, and it is preferred that the unsaturated bond of the alkenyl group is not directly bonded to the phenylene group.

[0762] Furthermore, when the stability of the liquid crystal composition is emphasized, the amount of the compound having an alkenyl group as a side chain and having a 2,3-difluorobenzene-1,4-diyl group contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably small. Specifically, it is preferably set to 10% by mass or less, more preferably to 5% by mass or less, and further preferably to substantially 0 (zero)% by mass.

[0763] The average elastic constant (K AVG) is preferably 10 to 25. Among them, the preferred lower limit is 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.3, 12.5, 12.8, 13, 13.3, 13.5, 13.8, 14, 14.3, 14.5, 14.8, 15, 15.3, 15.5, 15.8, 16, 16.3, 16.5, 16.8, 17, 17.3, 17.5, 17.8, and 18. On the other hand, the preferred upper limit value is 25, 24.5, 24, 23.5, 23, 22.8, 22.5, 22.3, 22, 21.8, 21.5, 21.3, 21, 20.8, 20.5, 20.3, 20, 19.8, 19.5, 19.3, 19, 18.8, 18.5, 18.3, 18, 17.8, 17.5, 17.3, and 17.

[0764] When reducing power consumption is important, it is effective to control the amount of backlight, and thus it is preferable to increase the light transmittance of the liquid crystal display element 1. Therefore, it is preferable to set K AVG When the improvement of response speed is important, it is preferred to set K AVG Set the value high.

[0765] The value of the refractive index anisotropy (Δn) (hereinafter also simply referred to as “refractive index anisotropy”) of the liquid crystal composition at 25° C. is preferably about 0.08 to 0.13, and more preferably about 0.09 to 0.12.

[0766] The rotational viscosity (γ1) of the liquid crystal composition at 25°C (hereinafter also simply referred to as "rotational viscosity") is preferably less than 165 mPa·s, more preferably about 80 to 145 mPa·s, and further preferably about 90 to 130 mPa·s. By using a liquid crystal composition having such a rotational viscosity, a decrease in the response speed of the liquid crystal layer (liquid crystal display element) can be prevented.

[0767] In the liquid crystal composition, it is preferred that Z, which is a function of the rotational viscosity and the refractive index anisotropy value, exhibit a specific value.

[0768] [Number 1]

[0769] Z=γ1 / Δn 2

[0770] Where γ1 represents the rotational viscosity and Δn represents the refractive index anisotropy.

[0771] Z is preferably 13,000 mPa·s or less, more preferably 12,000 mPa·s or less, and further preferably 11,000 mPa·s or less.

[0772] The nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (Tni) of the liquid crystal composition is preferably 60° C. or higher, more preferably 75° C. or higher, and further preferably 80° C. or higher. By using a liquid crystal composition having such Tni, a liquid crystal layer (liquid crystal display element) that can be stably driven within a practical temperature range can be obtained.

[0773] The resistivity of the liquid crystal composition is preferably 10 12 Ω·cm or more, more preferably 10 13 Ω·cm or more, more preferably 10 14 Ω·cm or more.

[0774] The absolute value of the dielectric anisotropy (Δε) of the liquid crystal composition at 25° C. is preferably about 2.5 to 5, more preferably about 2.6 to 4.5, further preferably about 2.7 to 4, and particularly preferably about 2.8 to 3.5. By using a liquid crystal composition having such dielectric anisotropy, the liquid crystal layer (liquid crystal display element) can be driven at a lower voltage.

[0775] In addition to the above-mentioned liquid crystal molecules, the liquid crystal composition described above may contain other compounds (molecules) such as common nematic liquid crystal, smectic liquid crystal, cholesteric liquid crystal, antioxidant, ultraviolet absorber, etc., depending on the application.

[0776] Among them, when the chemical stability of the liquid crystal composition is required, it is preferred that the other compounds do not have chlorine atoms in their structures. In addition, when the stability of the liquid crystal composition to light such as ultraviolet rays is required, it is preferred that the other compounds do not have condensed rings such as naphthalene rings with long conjugation lengths and absorption peaks in the ultraviolet region in their structures.

[0777] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention comprises: a liquid crystal mixture containing a plurality of the above-mentioned liquid crystal molecules, and an alignment aid. Furthermore, the present invention is characterized in that the difference between the solubility parameter (SP value) of the liquid crystal mixture and the solubility parameter (SP value) of the alignment aid (hereinafter referred to as "SP value difference") is 17 or less.

[0778] Here, the solubility parameter is a value defined by the regular solution theory introduced by Hildebrand, and can be theoretically calculated using the Small calculation method based on the chemical formula. More specifically, the solubility parameter is a value used to indicate the degree of compatibility between two materials. Materials with similar solubility parameters are easy to mix, while materials with greatly different solubility parameters are difficult to mix.

[0779] When the SP value difference exceeds 17, the compatibility between the liquid crystal mixture and the alignment aid is extremely low, and the alignment aid precipitates in a short time in the liquid crystal composition obtained by mixing them during storage. That is, the storage stability of the liquid crystal composition is poor.

[0780] In contrast, in the present invention, the liquid crystal mixture and the alignment aid having an SP value difference of 17 or less are used in combination, and their compatibility is sufficiently high. Therefore, even if the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is stored for a long period of time, the alignment aid is unlikely to precipitate, and the storage stability is excellent.

[0781] The SP value difference may be 17 or less, more preferably 13 or less, further preferably 10 or less, and particularly preferably 8 or less. When the SP value difference is within the above range, the compatibility of the liquid crystal mixture and the alignment aid can be made higher.

[0782] The lower limit of the SP value difference is preferably greater than 2, more preferably greater than 2.1, and further preferably greater than 2.2. When the SP value difference is within the above range, it means that the polarity of the alignment aid is not extremely low, and the adsorption force of the alignment aid (adsorption group) on the adsorption medium is fully maintained. Therefore, the alignment aid exerts a good alignment constraint force on the liquid crystal molecules.

[0783] It is particularly preferred that the SP value difference is more than 2 and less than 4 from the viewpoint of excellent pretilt angle stability. Moreover, it is particularly preferred that the SP value difference is 4 to 17 from the viewpoint of excellent vertical alignment.

[0784] The adsorption group is preferably a group selected from a cyclic group containing an oxygen atom and a chain group containing an oxygen atom, and more preferably a group containing -OH, -OC(=O)C(=O)O-X at1 (X at1 It means the same as above. ) or a cyclic group of a carbonate structure, and more preferably a cyclic group containing -OH or a carbonate structure. These adsorption groups have high adsorption force on the adsorption medium, so the orientation aid exerts a good orientation constraint force on the liquid crystal molecules. In addition, no drip marks of the dripping (ODF: One Drop Fill) method will be generated in the assembly process in the manufacturing process of the liquid crystal display element described later, and a good display can be obtained.

[0785] In addition, the number of adsorption groups can be more than 1, and more preferably 1 or 2. The orientation aid having 1 or 2 adsorption groups has appropriate adsorption force on the adsorption medium, and it is also easy to adjust the SP value difference with the liquid crystal mixture to an appropriate value. Therefore, when the liquid crystal composition is supplied to the adsorption medium, it will not be retained by the flow of the liquid crystal composition, and the orientation aid will wet and spread well on the adsorption medium. As a result, in each area in the surface direction of the adsorption medium, the liquid crystal molecules can be uniformly oriented vertically. In addition, for the dripping (ODF: One Drop Fill) method in the assembly process in the manufacturing process of the liquid crystal display element described later, the orientation aid is uniformly adsorbed on the adsorption medium, so that no drip marks will be generated, and a good display can be obtained.

[0786] It should be noted that the alignment aid may not have a polymerizable group, but preferably has at least one polymerizable group. In this case, the alignment restraining force on the liquid crystal molecules can be further increased by forming a polymer of the alignment aid.

[0787] The amount of the alignment aid contained in the liquid crystal composition is preferably about 0.01 to 10 mass %. From the viewpoint of further properly aligning the liquid crystal molecules, the more preferred lower limit is 0.05 mass %, 0.1 mass %. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of improving the response characteristics, the more preferred upper limit is 7 mass %, 5 mass %, 4 mass %, 3 mass %, 1 mass %. It should be noted that by adjusting the SP value difference to the above range, the high affinity of the alignment aid to the adsorption medium can be maintained, and a sufficient amount of the alignment aid can be dissolved in the liquid crystal mixture.

[0788] (Liquid crystal display element)

[0789] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention is used to form a liquid crystal layer of a liquid crystal display element. Figure 1 , 2 A liquid crystal display element according to this embodiment will be described.

[0790] Figure 1 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing an embodiment of a liquid crystal display element. Figure 2 For the general Figure 1 An enlarged plan view of the area enclosed by line I in FIG.

[0791] It should be noted that Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the drawings, for convenience, the size and ratio of each part are sometimes exaggerated, which is different from the actual situation. In addition, the material, size, etc. shown below are an example, and the present invention is not limited by them and can be appropriately changed within the scope of not changing its purpose.

[0792] Figure 1 The liquid crystal display element 1 shown includes an active matrix substrate AM and a color filter substrate CF which are arranged to face each other, and a liquid crystal layer 4 interposed between the active matrix substrate AM and the color filter substrate CF.

[0793] The active matrix substrate AM includes a first substrate 2 , a pixel electrode layer 5 provided on the surface of the first substrate 2 on the liquid crystal layer 4 side, and a first polarizing plate 7 provided on the surface of the first substrate 2 opposite to the liquid crystal layer 4 side.

[0794] On the other hand, the color filter substrate CF has a second substrate 3, a common electrode layer 6 arranged on the liquid crystal layer 4 side of the second substrate 3, a second polarizing plate 8 arranged on the surface of the second substrate 3 opposite to the liquid crystal layer 4, and a color filter 9 arranged between the second substrate 3 and the common electrode layer 6.

[0795] The liquid crystal layer 4 is of a vertical alignment type using negative dielectric anisotropy. In the liquid crystal layer 4 , when no voltage is applied between the electrode layers 5 and 6 , the liquid crystal molecules are aligned substantially vertically to the substrates AM and CF.

[0796] That is, the liquid crystal display element 1 according to the present embodiment has a structure in which the first polarizing plate 7, the first substrate 2, the pixel electrode layer 5, the liquid crystal layer 4, the common electrode layer 6, the color filter 9, the second substrate 3 and the second polarizing plate 8 are stacked in this order.

[0797] The first substrate 2 and the second substrate 3 are each formed of, for example, a glass material or a soft (flexible) material such as a plastic material.

[0798] The first substrate 2 and the second substrate 3 may both be light-transmissive, or only one of them may be light-transmissive. In the latter case, the other substrate may be made of an opaque material such as a metal material or a silicon material.

[0799] like Figure 2 As shown, the pixel electrode layer 5 has a plurality of gate bus lines 11 for supplying scanning signals, a plurality of data bus lines 12 for supplying display signals, and a plurality of pixel electrodes 13. It should be noted that: Figure 2 A pair of gate bus lines 11, 11 and a pair of data bus lines 12, 12 are shown.

[0800] A plurality of gate bus lines 11 and a plurality of data bus lines 12 are intersected and arranged in a matrix, and the area surrounded by them forms a unit pixel of the liquid crystal display element 1. A pixel electrode 13 is formed in each unit pixel. It should be noted that each pixel may also be composed of a plurality of sub-pixels.

[0801] The pixel electrode 13 can be made into the following structure (so-called fishbone structure), for example, which has: two main trunks that are orthogonal to each other and form a cross shape, and a plurality of branches that branch from each main trunk and are inclined at an angle of about 45° relative to each main trunk. In other words, it can be understood that the pixel electrode 13 can be regarded as an electrode having the following structure: having a slit formed between the branches.

[0802] With the pixel electrode 13 having this structure, the liquid crystal molecules are uniformly aligned in four directions in which the branch portions are tilted relative to the trunk portion. Therefore, four domains are formed in one pixel, and the viewing angle of the liquid crystal display element 1 can be widened.

[0803] The width L of each branch portion is preferably about 1 to 5 μm, more preferably about 2 to 4 μm. In addition, the spacing S between adjacent branches is preferably about 1 to 5 μm, more preferably about 2 to 4 μm. With such a structure, the liquid crystal molecules can be more reliably tilted and aligned in a predetermined direction.

[0804] A Cs electrode 14 is provided between the pair of gate bus lines 11 and 11 substantially parallel to the gate bus line 11. A thin film transistor including a source electrode 15 and a drain electrode 16 is provided near the intersection of the gate bus line 11 and the data bus line 12. The drain electrode 16 has a contact hole 17.

[0805] The gate bus 11 and the data bus 12 are preferably formed of, for example, Al, Cu, Au, Ag, Cr, Ta, Ti, Mo, W, Ni or alloys containing them, and more preferably formed of Mo, Al or alloys containing them.

[0806] For example, in order to improve light transmittance, the pixel electrode 13 is formed of a transparent electrode. The transparent electrode is formed by sputtering a compound such as ZnO, InGaZnO, SiGe, GaAs, IZO (Indium Zinc Oxide), ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), SnO, TiO, or AZTO (AlZnSnO).

[0807] The average thickness of the transparent electrode is preferably about 10 to 200 nm. In order to reduce the resistance, the transparent electrode may be formed by firing an amorphous ITO film to form a polycrystalline ITO film.

[0808] On the other hand, the common electrode layer 6 includes, for example, a plurality of stripe-shaped common electrodes (transparent electrodes) arranged side by side. The common electrode can also be formed in the same manner as the pixel electrode 13 .

[0809] The color filter 9 can be produced by, for example, a pigment dispersion method, a printing method, an electrodeposition method, a dyeing method, or the like.

[0810] In the pigment dispersion method, a curable coloring composition for a color filter is supplied onto the second substrate 3 so as to form a predetermined pattern, and then cured by heating or light irradiation. The color filter 9 can be obtained by performing this operation for the three colors of red, green, and blue.

[0811] It should be noted that the color filter 9 may be disposed on the first substrate 2 side.

[0812] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of preventing light leakage, a black matrix (not shown) may be provided in the liquid crystal display element 1. The black matrix is ​​preferably formed in a portion corresponding to the thin film transistor.

[0813] It should be noted that the black matrix can be arranged on the second substrate 3 side together with the color filter 9, or can be arranged on the first substrate 2 side together with the color filter 9, or the black matrix can be arranged on the first substrate 2 side and the color filter 9 can be arranged on the second substrate 3 side. In addition, the black matrix can also be composed of a portion in which the colors of the color filter 9 are overlapped to reduce the transmittance.

[0814] The active matrix substrate AM and the color filter substrate CF are bonded to each other in their peripheral regions using a sealing material (sealing material) composed of an epoxy-based thermosetting composition, an acrylic UV-curable composition, or the like.

[0815] It should be noted that a spacer may be disposed between the active matrix substrate AM and the color filter substrate CF to maintain the distance therebetween. Examples of the spacer include granular spacers such as glass particles, plastic particles, and alumina particles; and resin spacers formed by photolithography.

[0816] The average distance between the active matrix substrate AM and the color filter substrate CF (that is, the average thickness of the liquid crystal layer 4 ) is preferably about 1 to 100 μm.

[0817] The first polarizing plate 7 and the second polarizing plate 8 can be designed to have a good viewing angle and contrast by adjusting the positional relationship of their transmission axes. Specifically, it is preferred that the first polarizing plate 7 and the second polarizing plate 8 are configured in a manner that their transmission axes operate in a normally black mode and are orthogonal to each other. It is particularly preferred that either the first polarizing plate 7 or the second polarizing plate 8 is configured in a manner that its transmission axis is approximately 45° to the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules when a voltage is applied.

[0818] When the first polarizing plate 7 and the second polarizing plate 8 are used, the product of the refractive index anisotropy (Δn) of the liquid crystal layer 4 and the average thickness of the liquid crystal layer 4 is preferably adjusted to maximize the contrast. The liquid crystal display element 1 may further include a retardation film for widening the viewing angle.

[0819] It should be noted that, in the liquid crystal display element 1, an orientation film such as a polyimide orientation film may be provided on the liquid crystal layer 4 side of at least one of the active matrix substrate AM and the color filter substrate CF so as to be in contact with the liquid crystal layer 4. In other words, in the present invention, by using the liquid crystal composition as described above, at least one of the active matrix substrate AM and the color filter substrate CF may not have an orientation film.

[0820] (Method for manufacturing liquid crystal display element)

[0821] Next, a method for manufacturing such a liquid crystal display element 1 will be described.

[0822] The method for producing a liquid crystal display element of the present embodiment includes a preparation step [1] of preparing a substrate and a liquid crystal composition, an assembly step [2] of assembling the components, and a polymerization step [3] of polymerizing at least one of an alignment aid and a polymerizable compound.

[0823] [1] Preparation process

[0824] First, an active matrix substrate AM, a color filter substrate CF, and the above-mentioned liquid crystal composition are prepared.

[0825] [2] Assembly process

[0826] Next, the sealant is drawn in a closed-loop bank shape along the edge of at least one of the active matrix substrate AM and the color filter substrate CF using a dispenser.

[0827] Then, after a predetermined amount of liquid crystal composition is dropped inside the sealant, the active matrix substrate AM and the color filter substrate CF are arranged to face each other under reduced pressure so as to be in contact with the liquid crystal composition.

[0828] In such a drop filling (ODF: One Drop Fill) method, it is necessary to drop the optimal injection amount according to the size of the liquid crystal display element 1. The aforementioned liquid crystal composition is less affected by, for example, the sudden pressure change and impact in the dropping device generated during the dropping, and can be dropped stably for a long time. Therefore, the yield of the liquid crystal display element 1 can be maintained high.

[0829] In particular, in small liquid crystal display elements that are widely used in smartphones, it is difficult to control the deviation of the liquid crystal composition within a certain range because the optimal injection amount is small. However, by using the liquid crystal composition described above, a stable and optimal injection amount can be accurately dripped even in small liquid crystal display elements.

[0830] In addition, the ODF method can suppress the generation of drip marks when the liquid crystal composition is dripped onto the substrate. The drip marks are a phenomenon in which the traces of the liquid crystal composition dripped appear white during black display.

[0831] Then, the sealing material is cured by ultraviolet ray (active energy ray) irradiation and heating. It should be noted that, depending on the type of the sealing material, the sealing material may be cured by only one of ultraviolet ray irradiation and heating.

[0832] [3] Polymerization process

[0833] Next, the liquid crystal composition is irradiated with active energy rays such as ultraviolet rays and electron beams to polymerize at least one of the alignment aid and the polymerizable compound.

[0834] As a result, a polymer layer (polymer of at least one of the alignment aid and the polymerizable compound) for controlling the liquid crystal orientation is formed at the interface of the liquid crystal layer 4 , thereby obtaining the liquid crystal display element 1 .

[0835] In order to give the liquid crystal molecules a sufficient pretilt angle, it is desirable to have an appropriate polymerization speed. Therefore, during polymerization, it is preferred to irradiate the active energy rays alone, in combination, or in turn. When ultraviolet rays are used, a polarized light source may be used, or a non-polarized light source may be used.

[0836] When polymerization is performed with two substrates facing each other so as to contact the liquid crystal composition as in the present embodiment, at least the substrate on the irradiation surface side needs to have appropriate transmittance to the active energy rays.

[0837] In addition, polymerization can also be performed in multiple stages as follows. Specifically, first, the conditions such as electric field, magnetic field or temperature are adjusted to change the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules. In this state, the liquid crystal composition is irradiated with active energy rays to polymerize at least one of the orientation aid and the polymerizable compound. Next, the liquid crystal composition is irradiated with active energy rays without applying an electric field or a magnetic field to polymerize the remaining unpolymerized (residual polymer).

[0838] In particular, when ultraviolet rays are used, it is preferred to irradiate the liquid crystal composition with ultraviolet rays while applying an alternating electric field.

[0839] The frequency of the applied alternating electric field is preferably about 10 Hz to 10 kHz, more preferably about 60 Hz to 10 kHz.

[0840] The voltage of the applied AC electric field is selected according to the desired pretilt angle of the liquid crystal display element 1. That is, the pretilt angle of the liquid crystal display element 1 can be controlled by adjusting the voltage of the applied AC electric field. The pretilt angle given to the liquid crystal molecules is preferably about 85 to 89.5°, and more preferably about 87.5 to 89°. By adjusting the pretilt angle of the liquid crystal molecules to this range, the response speed of the liquid crystal display element 1 can be fully improved while preventing a decrease in contrast.

[0841] The temperature during ultraviolet irradiation is preferably within a temperature range in which the liquid crystal state of the liquid crystal composition is maintained. Specifically, the temperature is preferably close to room temperature, that is, typically about 15 to 35°C.

[0842] As the lamp that generates ultraviolet rays, a metal halide lamp, a high-pressure mercury lamp, an ultra-high-pressure mercury lamp, a fluorescent tube, or the like can be used.

[0843] Furthermore, the ultraviolet rays to be irradiated preferably have a wavelength that is not in the absorption wavelength region of the liquid crystal composition, and more preferably are used after filtering a predetermined wavelength as necessary.

[0844] The intensity of the irradiated ultraviolet light is preferably 0.1 mW / cm 2 ~100W / cm 2 About 2 mW / cm 2 ~50W / cm 2 It should be noted that the ultraviolet rays can be irradiated while changing the intensity.

[0845] The energy of the irradiated ultraviolet light can be adjusted appropriately, preferably 10 mJ / cm 2 ~500J / cm 2 About 100 mJ / cm 2 ~200J / cm 2 about.

[0846] The time for irradiating ultraviolet rays can be appropriately selected depending on the intensity, and is preferably about 10 to 3600 seconds, and more preferably about 10 to 600 seconds.

[0847] Among them, in the [2] assembly process, a vacuum injection method can be used instead of the drip (ODF) method. For example, in the vacuum injection method, first, along the edge of at least one of the active matrix substrate AM and the color filter substrate CF, a sealant is screen-printed in a manner that leaves an injection port. Thereafter, the two substrates AM and CF are bonded together, and the sealant is thermally cured by heating. Next, under vacuum, the liquid crystal composition is injected into the space defined by the sealant between the two substrates AM and CF through the injection port, and then the injection port is sealed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to the [3] polymerization process.

[0848] The liquid crystal display element 1 obtained in this way is preferably a PSA type, PSVA type, VA type, IPS type, FFS type or ECB type liquid crystal display element, and more preferably a PSA type liquid crystal display element.

[0849] As mentioned above, the alignment aid, liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display element of the present invention are described based on the embodiments, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and each structure can be replaced with any structure having the same function, and other arbitrary structures can be added.

[0850] [Example]

[0851] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0852] The properties measured for the liquid crystal mixture are as follows.

[0853] Tni: Nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (℃)

[0854] Δn: Refractive index anisotropy at 293K

[0855] Δε: Dielectric anisotropy at 293K

[0856] γ1: Rotational viscosity at 293K (mPa·s)

[0857] K11: Splay elastic constant at 293K (pN)

[0858] K33: Bending elastic constant at 293K (pN)

[0859] In addition, the following abbreviations are used for describing the compounds used in each Example and each Comparative Example: n in the abbreviation is a natural number.

[0860] (Sidechain)

[0861] -n: -C n H 2n+1 : A linear alkyl group with n carbon atoms

[0862] n-:C n H 2n+1 -: Straight-chain alkyl with n carbon atoms

[0863] -On -OC n H 2n+1 : A linear alkoxy group having n carbon atoms

[0864] -V1 -CH=CH-CH3:Propylene

[0865] V-:CH2=CH-:vinyl

[0866] 1V2- CH3-CH=CH-CH2-CH2-: Pentenyl

[0867] (Connection structure)

[0868] -nO- -C n H 2n O-

[0869] (Ring structure)

[0870] [Chemistry 111]

[0871]

[0872] The compositions and physical properties of the liquid crystal mixtures LC1, LC2, and LC3 are shown in Table 1 below.

[0873] [Table 1]

[0874]

[0875] As the alignment aid, the following alignment aids (SA1) to (SA8) were used.

[0876] [Chemistry 112]

[0877]

[0878] [Chemistry 113]

[0879]

[0880] [Chemistry 114]

[0881]

[0882] [Chemistry 115]

[0883]

[0884] [Chemistry 116]

[0885]

[0886] [Chemistry 117]

[0887]

[0888] [Chemistry 118]

[0889]

[0890] [Chemistry 119]

[0891]

[0892] The following compounds were used as the polymerizable compound.

[0893] [Chemistry 120]

[0894]

[0895] 1. Modulation of Liquid Crystal Composition

[0896] (Example 1)

[0897] 0.5 parts by mass of an alignment aid (SA1) and 0.3 parts by mass of a polymerizable compound were mixed with 100 parts by mass of LC1 (liquid crystal mixture), and the mixture was heated and melted to prepare a liquid crystal composition.

[0898] (Examples 2 to 15, Comparative Examples 1 to 9)

[0899] Except having changed the kind of the liquid crystal mixture, the alignment auxiliary agent, and the polymerizable compound as shown in Table 1, it carried out similarly to Example 1, and prepared the liquid crystal composition.

[0900] 2. Calculation and evaluation

[0901] 2-1. Calculation of SP value difference

[0902] The SP value difference between the liquid crystal mixture and the alignment auxiliary agent was calculated by the following method.

[0903] The SP value difference between the liquid crystal mixture (component A) and the alignment aid (component B) was calculated according to the following formula using the component dispersion term dD, polar term dP, and hydrogen bonding term dH of the solubility parameter calculated by commercially available software (Hansen Solubility Parameter in Practice: HSPiP).

[0904] SP value difference = [4(dDA-dDB) 2 +(dPA-dPB) 2 +(dHA-dHB) 2 ] 0.5

[0905] 2-2. Evaluation of low temperature storage properties

[0906] First, the liquid crystal composition was filtered using a membrane filter (PTFE filter manufactured by Agilent Technologies: diameter 13 mm, pore size 0.2 μm), and allowed to stand for 15 minutes under vacuum reduced pressure conditions to remove dissolved air.

[0907] Next, the solution was washed with acetone, 0.5 g was weighed in a well-dried sample bottle, and allowed to stand in an environment of -25°C for 10 days.

[0908] Then, the presence or absence of precipitation of the alignment aid was visually observed and judged based on the following three-level evaluation criteria.

[0909] [Evaluation criteria]

[0910] ○: No precipitation of the alignment aid was observed.

[0911] △: Precipitation of the alignment aid was confirmed.

[0912] ×: The alignment aid was not dissolved and the evaluation test was not performed.

[0913] 2-3. Evaluation of vertical orientation

[0914] First, a first substrate (common electrode substrate) and a second substrate (pixel electrode substrate) are prepared, wherein the first substrate has a transparent electrode layer composed of a patterned transparent common electrode on an insulating layer, has a color filter layer and does not have an orientation film, and the second substrate has a pixel electrode layer without an orientation film, and the pixel electrode layer has a transparent pixel electrode driven by an active element.

[0915] Next, a liquid crystal composition was dropped onto the first substrate and then sandwiched with second substrates. The sealant was cured at 110° C. for 2 hours under normal pressure to obtain a liquid crystal cell with a cell gap of 3.2 μm.

[0916] The vertical alignment at this time was observed using a polarizing microscope and evaluated based on the following four-level evaluation criteria.

[0917] [Evaluation criteria]

[0918] ◎: The entire surface is uniformly vertically oriented

[0919] ○: Slight orientation defect, but tolerable level

[0920] △: There are orientation defects and the level is unacceptable

[0921] ×: Orientation failure is quite severe

[0922] 2-4. Evaluation of drip marks

[0923] The liquid crystal cell produced in the evaluation of the vertical alignment property was used to observe the alignment unevenness caused by the drop marks with a polarizing microscope, and the evaluation was performed based on the following four-level evaluation criteria.

[0924] ◎: No drip marks

[0925] ○: Slight dripping, but acceptable level

[0926] △: There are drip marks and the level is unacceptable

[0927] ×: There are drip marks and it is quite bad

[0928] The above results are shown in Table 2 below.

[0929] [Table 2]

[0930]

[0931] In Comparative Examples 1 to 3, the difference in SP value was small, the low temperature storage property was good, but the vertical alignment property was insufficient. In Comparative Examples 4 to 9, the difference in SP value was too large, the compatibility between the liquid crystal mixture and the alignment aid was low, and the alignment aid was precipitated immediately after the preparation of the liquid crystal composition, and the vertical alignment property and drip marks were not evaluated.

[0932] The above results show that the low-temperature storage property, vertical alignment property and suppression of dripping marks of each Example are better than those of each Comparative Example, and are suitable for realizing vertical alignment in a liquid crystal cell without an alignment film.

Claims

1. A liquid crystal composition, characterized in that: Containing: a liquid crystal mixture containing a plurality of liquid crystal molecules, and an orientation aid having at least one adsorption group and used for spontaneously orienting the liquid crystal molecules, The difference between the solubility parameter of the liquid crystal mixture and the solubility parameter of the alignment aid is less than 8 and greater than 2.2; The liquid crystal molecules contain at least one of the compounds represented by the general formulae (N-1) to (N-3) and at least one of the compounds represented by the general formula (L); [Chemistry 58] In the formula, R N11 , R N12 , R N21 , R N22 , R N31 and R N32 Each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group are each independently substituted with -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-; A N11 , A N12 , A N21 , A N22 , A N31 and A N32 each independently represents a group selected from the group consisting of group (a), group (b), group (c) and group (d), (a) 1,4-cyclohexylene, any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the group are optionally substituted by -O-; (b) 1,4-phenylene, in which any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups present in the group are optionally substituted with -N=; (c) naphthalene-2,6-diyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl or decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, in which any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups are optionally substituted with -N=; (d) 1,4-cyclohexenylene, The group (a), group (b), group (c) and group (d) are each independently optionally substituted by a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; Z N11 , Z N12 , Z N21 , Z N22 , Z N31 and Z N32 Each independently represents a single bond, -CH2CH2-, -(CH2)4-, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCF2-, -CF2O-, -CH=N-N=CH-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-; X N21 represents a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; T N31 It represents -CH2- or oxygen atom; n N11 、n N12 、n N21 、n N22 、n N31 and n N32 Each independently represents an integer from 0 to 3, and n N11 +n N12 、n N21 +n N22 and n N31 +n N32 Each independently is 1, 2 or 3, A N11 ~A N32 , Z N11 ~Z N32 Where there are more than one, they may be the same or different; [Chemistry 82] In the formula, R L1 and R L2 Each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group are each independently substituted with -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-; n L1 Indicates 0, 1, 2, or 3; A L1 , A L2 and A L3 each independently represents a group selected from the group consisting of group (a), group (b) and group (c), (a) 1,4-cyclohexylene, any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the group are optionally substituted by -O-; (b) 1,4-phenylene, in which any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups present in the group are optionally substituted with -N=; (c) naphthalene-2,6-diyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl or decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, in which any one or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups are optionally substituted with -N=; The group (a), group (b) and group (c) are each independently optionally substituted by a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; Z L1 and Z L2 Each independently represents a single bond, -CH2CH2-, -(CH2)4-, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCF2-, -CF2O-, -CH=N-N=CH-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-; n L1 2 or 3 and there are multiple A L2 In the case of , they can be the same or different; n L1 is 2 or 3 and there are multiple Z L3 In the case of , they can be the same or different; Among them, compounds represented by general formula (N-1), (N-2) and (N-3) are excluded; The alignment aid is selected from compounds represented by formula (SAL-1.9) to (SAL-1.18), formula (SAL-2.5), and formula (SAL-2.8) to (SAL-2.11). [Chemistry 32] [Chemistry 33] [Chemistry 34] [Chemistry 42] [Chemistry 43] 2. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 1, further comprising a polymerizable compound represented by the following general formula (P): [Chemistry 5] In formula (P), R p1 represents a hydrogen atom, a fluorine atom, a cyano group, an alkyl group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms, or -Sp p2 -P p2 , one or more non-adjacent -CH2- in the alkyl group are each independently optionally substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-, and one or more hydrogen atoms in the alkyl group are each independently optionally substituted by a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom, P p1 and P p2 Each independently represents the following general formula (P p1 -1)~Formula (P p1 -9) any one of the following, [Chemistry 6] In the formula, R p11 and R p12 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or a halogenated alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and W p11 represents a single bond, -O-, -COO-, -OCO- or -CH2-, t p11 Represents 0, 1 or 2, and there are multiple R in the molecule p11 , R p12 , W p11 and / or p11 In the case of , they can be the same or different, * represents a bonding bond, Sp p1 and Sp p2 Each independently represents a single bond or a spacer group, Z p1 and Z p2 Each independently represents a single bond, -O-, -S-, -CH2-, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -CO-, -C2H4-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCOOCH2-, -CH2OCOO-, -OCH2CH2O-, -CO-NR ZP1 -, -NR ZP1 -CO-, -SCH2-, -CH2S-, -CH=CR ZP1 -COO-, -CH=CR ZP1 -OCO-, -COO-CR ZP1 =CH-, -OCO-CR ZP1 =CH-, -COO-CR ZP1 =CH-COO-, -COO-CR ZP1 =CH-OCO-, -OCO-CR ZP1 =CH-COO-, -OCO-CR ZP1 =CH-OCO-, -(CH2)2-COO-, -(CH2)2-OCO-, -OCO-(CH2)2-, -(C=O)-O-(CH2)2-, -CH=CH-, -CF= CF-, -CF=CH-, -CH=CF-, -CF2-, -CF2O-, -OCF2-, -CF2CH2-, -CH2CF2-, -CF2CF2- or -C≡C-, where, R ZP1 Each independently represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and a plurality of R ZP1 In the case of , they can be the same or different, A p1 , A p2 and A p3 Each independently represents a group selected from p ), group (b p ) and group (c p ), wherein the group (a p ), group (b p ) and group (c p ), each independently, the hydrogen atoms present in the group may be replaced by halogen atoms, alkyl groups having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or alkenyl groups having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, cyano groups or -Sp p2 -P p2 replace, (a p ) 1,4-cyclohexylene, one -CH2- or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- in the group are optionally substituted by -O-; (b p ) 1,4-phenylene, wherein one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= in the group are optionally substituted by -N=; (c p ) naphthalene-2,6-diyl, naphthalene-1,4-diyl, naphthalene-1,5-diyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl, phenanthrene-2,7-diyl or anthracene-2,6-diyl, one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= in these groups are optionally substituted with -N=, m p1 represents 0, 1, 2 or 3, There are multiple Z in the molecule p1 , A p2 、Sp p2 and / or P p2 In the case of p1 is 0 and A p1 For the group (c p ), A p3 Can be a single key.

3. A liquid crystal display element, characterized in that: The invention comprises two substrates and a liquid crystal layer provided between the two substrates and containing the liquid crystal composition according to any one of claims 1 to 2. The liquid crystal display element according to claim 3 , wherein the liquid crystal layer contains a polymer of the alignment aid. 5 . The liquid crystal display element according to claim 3 , which is a PSA type, a PSVA type, a VA type, an IPS type, a FFS type or an ECB type. 6 . The liquid crystal display element according to claim 3 , wherein at least one of the two substrates does not have an alignment film.

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