Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display element

Abstract

To provide a liquid crystal composition that uses a combination of liquid crystal compounds of specific structures with negative dielectric anisotropy, wherein the liquid crystal composition is free of the precipitation of the liquid crystal compounds and has high storage stability; and provide a liquid crystal display device that is produced with the liquid crystal composition and has high transmittance, fast response, a wide operation temperature range, and high contrast.SOLUTION: A liquid crystal composition contains, as liquid crystal compounds having more negative dielectric anisotropies than -2, two or more liquid crystal compounds represented by general formula (N1). The total content of the liquid crystal compounds represented by general formula (N1) is 75 mass% or more of the total content of the liquid crystal compounds having more negative dielectric anisotropies than -2, used in the liquid crystal composition. As a liquid crystal compound having a neutral dielectric anisotropy (-2<Δε<2), a liquid crystal compound represented by formula (L-10-1) is contained.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid crystal composition and a liquid crystal display device using the same, more specifically to a so-called n-type liquid crystal composition having a negative dielectric anisotropy (Δε). [Background technology]

[0002] Liquid crystal display (LCD) elements are used in a variety of applications, including watches, calculators, various household electrical appliances, industrial measuring instruments, automotive panels, mobile phones, smartphones, notebook PCs, tablet PCs, and televisions. Typical LCD display types include TN (twisted nematic), STN (super twisted nematic), GH (guest-host), IPS (in-plane switching), FFS (fringe-field switching), OCB (optically compensated birefringence), ECB (voltage-controlled birefringence), VA (vertical alignment), CSH (color super homeotropic), and FLC (ferroelectric liquid crystal). Driving methods include static driving, multiplex driving, simple matrix driving, and active matrix (AM) driving using thin film transistors (TFTs) or thin film diodes (TFDs). Among these display modes, IPS type, FFS type, ECB type, VA type, CSH type, etc. are known to exhibit advantageous characteristics when a liquid crystal composition exhibiting a negative dielectric anisotropy (n-type liquid crystal composition) is used.

[0003] Display modes using n-type liquid crystal compositions include vertical alignment modes, such as the VA mode and the PSA (Polymer Sustained Alignment) or PSVA (Polymer Stabilized Vertical Alignment) modes, in which alignment is controlled by polymerizing a polymerizable compound in the liquid crystal phase, and horizontal alignment modes, such as the IPS mode and FFS mode.

[0004] All of these drive methods require low-voltage operation, high transmittance, fast response, and a wide operating temperature range. These requirements include a large absolute value of dielectric anisotropy (Δε), a small viscosity (η), and a high nematic-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (Tni). Furthermore, the Δn of the liquid crystal composition must be adjusted to a suitable range to match the cell gap, based on the product of refractive index anisotropy (Δn) and cell gap (d), Δn×d.

[0005] Furthermore, IPS-type and FFS-type liquid crystal display devices, which are high-quality and have excellent visual characteristics, are widely used as liquid crystal displays for smartphones and tablets. IPS-type and FFS-type liquid crystal displays are horizontal electric field modes that utilize an electric field generated horizontally relative to the substrate, and liquid crystal materials exhibiting a negative Δε value can be used. Liquid crystal materials with a large negative Δε value, which is greater than -2, are known to have liquid crystal compositions using, for example, the following compounds (A), (B), and (C) (see Patent Document 1).

[0006] [ka]

[0007] In the IPS mode and FFS mode, as with other driving methods, liquid crystal display elements are required to have high transmittance, high-speed response, a wide operating temperature range, good contrast, and low driving voltage.

[0008] Liquid crystal compositions typically used in liquid crystal layers contain a mixture of two liquid crystal compounds: a polar component with negative dielectric anisotropy and a non-polar component with neutral dielectric anisotropy. The entire liquid crystal composition contains several to several dozen different liquid crystal compounds. Therefore, depending on the combination of liquid crystal compounds, the mutual compatibility may be poor, resulting in precipitation of some of the liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition, preventing the liquid crystal material from fully functioning. Even in liquid crystal compositions in which the liquid crystal compounds used are mutually compatible and do not precipitate, the transmittance, high-speed response, and visibility of the liquid crystal display device may not be satisfactory when the liquid crystal composition is used. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2010 / 084823 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] Therefore, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a liquid crystal composition that uses a combination of liquid crystal compounds having a specific structure and negative dielectric anisotropy, and that has excellent storage stability and is free from precipitation of the liquid crystal compound, and also to provide a liquid crystal display element that combines high transmittance, high-speed response, a wide operating temperature range, and good contrast by using the liquid crystal composition. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The present inventors have investigated various combinations of liquid crystal compounds and found that the above-mentioned problems can be solved by adjusting the selection thereof, which has led to the completion of the present invention.

[0012] That is, the present invention relates to a liquid crystal composition comprising two or more liquid crystal compounds having a specific terminal structure represented by the following general formula (N1) as liquid crystal compounds having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2, wherein the total content of the liquid crystal compounds having the specific terminal structure represented by the general formula (N1) is 75 mass% or more of the total content of liquid crystal compounds having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2 used in the liquid crystal composition, and comprising a liquid crystal compound represented by formula (L-10-1) as a liquid crystal compound having a neutral dielectric anisotropy (−2<Δε<2):

[0013] [ka]

[0014] [ka] [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention satisfies the various properties required for an n-type liquid crystal composition having a negative Δε and has excellent storage stability. When used in a liquid crystal device, the liquid crystal composition provides a liquid crystal display element having high transmittance, fast response, a wide operating temperature range, and high contrast, and is useful as a display element for a liquid crystal TV, monitor, etc. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] As described above, the present invention relates to a liquid crystal composition and a liquid crystal display device using the same. First, an embodiment of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention will be described below. <Liquid Crystal Composition> The liquid crystal composition of the present invention contains two or more liquid crystal compounds having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than -2. The value of the dielectric anisotropy (Δε: measured at 25°C) was calculated from the formula Δε = ε∥ - ε⊥. The dielectric constants (ε∥, ε⊥) were measured as follows. A) Measurement of dielectric constant (ε∥): A vertical alignment film was applied to a thoroughly cleaned glass substrate and baked. Two glass substrates were arranged so that the alignment film-coated surfaces faced each other, and a spacer agent and a sealant were sandwiched between the glass substrates so that the distance between them (cell gap) was approximately 10 μm. The sealant was then cured to obtain a vertical alignment element. Liquid crystal material was injected into the vertical alignment element and sealed with an adhesive that cures under ultraviolet light. A sine wave (0.3 V, 1 kHz) was applied to this element, and the dielectric constant (ε∥) of the liquid crystal material in the long axis direction was measured. B) Measurement of dielectric constant (ε⊥): A horizontal alignment film was applied to a thoroughly cleaned glass substrate, baked, and then rubbed. Two glass substrates were arranged so that the alignment film-coated surfaces faced each other and the rubbing direction was 180°. A spacer agent and a sealant were sandwiched between the glass substrates so that the distance between the glass substrates (cell gap) was approximately 10 μm, and the sealant was cured to obtain an anti-parallel horizontal alignment element. A liquid crystal material was injected into the anti-parallel horizontal alignment element and it was sealed with a UV-curable adhesive. A sine wave (20.0 V, 1 kHz) was applied to this element, and the dielectric constant (ε⊥) of the liquid crystal material in the minor axis direction was measured. C) For liquid crystal compounds that do not exhibit a nematic phase at 25°C, the liquid crystal compound to be measured was added at various concentrations to a parent liquid crystal with known ε∥ and ε⊥, and the ε∥ and ε⊥ of the liquid crystal compound alone were calculated by extrapolation. (Compound (N1)) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention contains two or more liquid crystal compounds selected from the following general formula (N1) as liquid crystal compounds having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than -2. Hereinafter, the compound represented by general formula (N1) may be referred to as "compound (N1)." Compounds represented by other formulas may also be referred to in the same manner.

[0017] [ka]

[0018] (In the formula, A N11 and A N12 are each independently (a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one -CH2- or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups may be replaced by -O-), and (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups may be replaced by -N=). (c) A naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group may be replaced by -N=). (d) 1,4-cyclohexenylene group wherein the groups (a), (b), (c) and (d) may each independently be substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; Z N11 and Z N12 each independently represents a single bond, -CH2CH2-, -(CH2)4-, -OCH2-, -CHO-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCF2-, -CF2O-, -CH=NN=CH-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-, n N11 and n N12 Each independently represents 0 or 1, N11 +n N12 is 1 or 2.) In general formula (N1), n N11 represents 0, and n N12 If represents 1, then A N12 preferably represents a 1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-phenylene group or a 1,4-cyclohexenylene group, which may be substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom.

[0019] In general formula (N1), n N11 represents 0, and n N12 If represents 1, then Z N12preferably represents a single bond, -OCH2-, -CHO-, -COO-, -OCO-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-; Z N12 preferably represents a single bond, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -COO-, or -OCO-; Z N12 preferably represents a single bond, —OCH2— or —CH2O—.

[0020] In general formula (N1), n N11 represents 1, and n N12 If represents 1, then A N11 preferably represents a 1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-phenylene group or a 1,4-cyclohexenylene group, which may be substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom.

[0021] In general formula (N1), n N11 represents 1, and n N12 If represents 1, then A N12 preferably represents a 1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-phenylene group or a 1,4-cyclohexenylene group, which may be substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom.

[0022] In general formula (N1), n N11 represents 1, and n N12 If represents 1, then Z N11 preferably represents a single bond, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -CH2CH2-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-; Z N11 preferably represents a single bond, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -CH2CH2- or -OCO-; Z N11 preferably represents a single bond or -CH2CH2-.

[0023] In general formula (N1), n N11 represents 1, and n N12 If represents 1, then Z N12 preferably represents a single bond, -OCH2-, -CHO-, -COO-, -OCO-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-; Z N12preferably represents a single bond, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -COO-, or -OCO-; Z N12 preferably represents a single bond, —OCH2— or —CH2O—.

[0024] The compound (N1) is a compound group having a so-called mesogenic skeleton portion with negative dielectric anisotropy and an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms) with specific numbers of carbon atoms at both terminal portions bonded to the mesogenic skeleton portion. By using a plurality of liquid crystal compounds having different structures of the mesogenic skeleton portion but the same numbers of carbon atoms at both terminal portions (an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms)), in a liquid crystal composition, a liquid crystal composition with excellent storage stability and no precipitation of the liquid crystal compound can be obtained.

[0025] It is important that the liquid crystal composition of the present invention contains the liquid crystal compounds represented by general formula (N1) in a total content of 75% by mass or more, preferably 80% by mass or more, 85% by mass or more, 90% by mass or more, 95% by mass or more, or 100% by mass of the total content of liquid crystal compounds having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2 used in the liquid crystal composition. (Compound (N1-I)) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains a liquid crystal compound represented by the following formula (N1-I) as the liquid crystal compound represented by the general formula (N1) having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than -2. Hereinafter, the compound represented by formula (N1-I) may be referred to as "compound (N1-I)." The same may also be said for compounds represented by other formulas.

[0026] [ka]

[0027] The compound (N1-I) is a compound having a so-called mesogenic skeleton portion with negative dielectric anisotropy, as well as an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms) with specific numbers of carbon atoms at both terminal portions bonded to the mesogenic skeleton portion. By using a liquid crystal compound with negative dielectric anisotropy, which has a different mesogenic skeleton structure from compound (N1-I) but has the same numbers of carbon atoms at both terminal portions (an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms)), as described below, in a liquid crystal composition, a liquid crystal composition with excellent storage stability and no precipitation of the liquid crystal compound can be obtained.

[0028] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0029] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N1-I) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 10 mass%, or 12 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 26 mass%, 24 mass%, 22 mass%, 21 mass%, or 20 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the composition of the present invention. (Compound (N1-II)) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains a liquid crystal compound represented by the following formula (N1-II) as a liquid crystal compound having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2.

[0030] [ka]

[0031] The above compound (N1-II) is a compound having a so-called mesogenic skeleton portion with negative dielectric anisotropy, as well as an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms) with specific carbon atoms at both terminal portions bonded to the mesogenic skeleton portion. By using a liquid crystal compound with negative dielectric anisotropy that has a different mesogenic skeleton structure from compound (N1-II) but the same carbon atoms at both terminal portions (an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms)), a liquid crystal composition can be obtained that has excellent storage stability and is free from precipitation of the liquid crystal compound.

[0032] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0033] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by Formula (N1-II) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, or 10 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 26 mass%, 24 mass%, or 22 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the composition of the present invention. (Compound (N1-III)) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains a liquid crystal compound represented by the following formula (N1-III) as a liquid crystal compound having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2.

[0034] [ka]

[0035] The above compound (N1-III) is a compound having a so-called mesogenic skeleton portion with negative dielectric anisotropy, as well as an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms) with specific carbon atoms at both terminal portions bonded to the mesogenic skeleton portion. By using a liquid crystal compound with negative dielectric anisotropy that has a different mesogenic skeleton structure from compound (N1-III) but the same carbon atoms at both terminal portions (an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms)), a liquid crystal composition can be obtained that has excellent storage stability and is free from precipitation of the liquid crystal compound.

[0036] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0037] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by Formula (N1-III) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, or 8 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 26 mass%, 24 mass%, 22 mass%, 21 mass%, 20 mass%, or 18 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the composition of the present invention. (Compound (N1-IV)) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains a liquid crystal compound represented by the following formula (N1-IV) as a liquid crystal compound having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2.

[0038] [ka]

[0039] The above compound (N1-IV) is a compound having a so-called mesogenic skeleton portion with negative dielectric anisotropy, as well as an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms) with specific carbon atoms at both terminal portions bonded to the mesogenic skeleton portion. By using a liquid crystal compound with negative dielectric anisotropy that has a different mesogenic skeleton structure from compound (N1-IV) but the same carbon atoms at both terminal portions (an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms)), a liquid crystal composition can be obtained that has excellent storage stability and is free from precipitation of the liquid crystal compound.

[0040] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0041] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by Formula (N1-IV) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, or 8 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 26 mass%, 24 mass%, 22 mass%, 21 mass%, or 20 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the composition of the present invention. (Compound (N1-V)) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains a liquid crystal compound represented by the following formula (N1-V) as a liquid crystal compound having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2.

[0042] [ka]

[0043] The above compound (N1-V) is a compound having a so-called mesogenic skeleton portion with negative dielectric anisotropy, as well as an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms) with specific carbon atoms at both terminal portions bonded to the mesogenic skeleton portion.By using a liquid crystal compound with negative dielectric anisotropy that has a different mesogenic skeleton structure from compound (N1-V) but the same carbon atoms at both terminal portions (an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms)), a liquid crystal composition can be obtained that has excellent storage stability and is free from precipitation of the liquid crystal compound.

[0044] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0045] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (V) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, or 7 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 35 mass%, 30 mass%, 28 mass%, 26 mass%, 24 mass%, 22 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, or 15 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the composition of the present invention. (Compound (N1-VI)) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains a liquid crystal compound represented by the following formula (N1-VI) as a liquid crystal compound having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2.

[0046] [ka]

[0047] The above compound (N1-VI) is a compound having a so-called mesogenic skeleton portion with negative dielectric anisotropy, as well as an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms) with specific carbon atoms at both terminal portions bonded to the mesogenic skeleton portion. By using a liquid crystal compound with negative dielectric anisotropy that has a different mesogenic skeleton structure from compound (N1-VI) but the same carbon atoms at both terminal portions (an alkyl group (3 carbon atoms) and an alkoxy group (2 carbon atoms)), a liquid crystal composition can be obtained that has excellent storage stability and is free from precipitation of the liquid crystal compound.

[0048] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0049] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N1-VI) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 3 mass % or 5 mass %, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 24 mass %, 22 mass %, 21 mass %, 20 mass %, 18 mass %, or 15 mass % relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the composition of the present invention.

[0050] It is important that the liquid crystal composition of the present invention contains at least 75% by mass of the liquid crystal compounds selected from the group consisting of the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-III), the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-I), the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-II), the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-IV), the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-V), and the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-VI), and is preferably at least 80% by mass, at least 85% by mass, at least 90% by mass, at least 95% by mass, or at least 100% by mass of the liquid crystal compounds having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2 used in the liquid crystal composition. In particular, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains at least one liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-III) as an essential component, and more preferably contains at least one liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-III) and at least one liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-I) and / or formula (N1-IV) as essential components. When a liquid crystal composition is used in which the total content of the liquid crystal compounds represented by the formulae (N1-I) to (N1-VI) falls within the above range, and further when the liquid crystal compounds represented by the formulae (N1-I) to (N1-VI) are used as essential components, the liquid crystal composition has excellent storage stability and is free from precipitation of the liquid crystal compounds. Furthermore, a liquid crystal display device using the liquid crystal composition can achieve high transmittance, high-speed response, a wide operating temperature range, and good contrast. (Other liquid crystal compounds with a dielectric anisotropy more negative than -2) (Compound (N-1)) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention may further contain one or more compounds represented by general formula (N-1) as liquid crystal compounds having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2 other than the liquid crystal compound represented by general formula (N1), i.e., the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-I), the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-II), the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-III), the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-IV), the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-V), and the liquid crystal compound represented by formula (N1-VI).

[0051] [ka]

[0052] (In the formula, R N11 and R N12 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, in which one or two or more non-adjacent —CH— groups may each independently be replaced by —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—; A N11 and A N12 are each independently (a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one -CH2- or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups may be replaced by -O-), and (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups may be replaced by -N=). (c) A naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group may be replaced by -N=). (d) 1,4-cyclohexenylene group wherein the groups (a), (b), (c) and (d) may each independently be substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; Z N11 and Z N12 each independently represents a single bond, -CH2CH2-, -(CH2)4-, -OCH2-, -CHO-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCF2-, -CF2O-, -CH=NN=CH-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-, n N11 and n N12 Each independently represents an integer of 0 to 3, N11 +n N12 is 1, 2 or 3, and A N11 ~AN32 , Z N11 ~Z N32 When a plurality of are present, they may be the same or different, except for the compounds represented by formula (N1-I), formula (N1-II), formula (N1-III), formula (N1-IV), formula (N1-V) and formula (N1-VI). In general formula (N-1), R N11 and R N12 are each independently preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, still more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and particularly preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

[0053] Furthermore, when the ring structure to which it is bonded is a phenyl group (aromatic), it is preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and when the ring structure to which it is bonded is a saturated ring structure such as cyclohexane, pyran, or dioxane, it is preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. In order to stabilize the nematic phase, it is preferable that the total number of carbon atoms and, if present, oxygen atoms is 5 or less, and a linear structure is preferred.

[0054] In general formula (N-1), A N11 and A N12are each independently preferably aromatic when it is required to increase Δn, and are preferably aliphatic in order to improve the response speed, and preferably represent a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-phenylene group, a 2-fluoro-1,4-phenylene group, a 3-fluoro-1,4-phenylene group, a 3,5-difluoro-1,4-phenylene group, a 2,3-difluoro-1,4-phenylene group, a 1,4-cyclohexenylene group, a 1,4-bicyclo[2.2.2]octylene group, a piperidine-1,4-diyl group, a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, and more preferably represent the following structure:

[0055] [ka]

[0056] More preferably, it represents a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-cyclohexenylene group, or a 1,4-phenylene group.

[0057] In general formula (N-1), Z N11 and Z N12 preferably each independently represent -CH2O-, -CF2O-, -CH2CH2-, -CF2CF2- or a single bond, more preferably -CH2O-, -CH2CH2- or a single bond, and particularly preferably -CH2O- or a single bond.

[0058] In general formula (N-1), n N11 +n N12 is preferably 1 or 2, and n N11 is 1 and n N12 combinations where n is 0 N11 is 2 and n N12 combinations where n is 0 N11 is 1 and n N12 combination where is 1, n N11 is 2 and n N12 is 1 is preferred.

[0059] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0060] When the viscosity of the composition of the present invention is kept low and a composition with a fast response speed is required, it is preferable that the above lower limit value is low and the above upper limit value is low. Furthermore, when the Tni of the composition of the present invention is kept high and a composition with good temperature stability is required, it is preferable that the above lower limit value is low and the above upper limit value is low. Furthermore, when it is desired to increase the dielectric anisotropy in order to keep the driving voltage low, it is preferable that the above lower limit value is high and the above upper limit value is high.

[0061] Specifically, the compound represented by general formula (N-1) having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2 is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by general formulas (N-1-1) to (N-1-5), general formulas (N-1-11) to (N-1-18), and general formulas (N-1-20) to (N-1-22).

[0062] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-1) is the following compound.

[0063] [ka]

[0064] (In the formula, R N111 and R N112 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-, excluding the compound represented by formula (N1-II). R N111 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably a propyl group or a pentyl group.N112 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethoxy group or a butoxy group.

[0065] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-1) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0066] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0067] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by general formula (N-1-1) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0068] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-1) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (N-1-1.1) to (N-1-1.17), preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-1.1) to (N-1-1.3), and more preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-1.1) and (N-1-1.2).

[0069] [ka]

[0070] The compounds represented by formulas (N-1-1.1) to (N-1-1.7) can be used alone or in combination, but the preferred lower limit of the content of each of these compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0071] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-2) is the following compound.

[0072] [ka]

[0073] (In the formula, R N121 and R N122 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-, excluding the compound represented by formula (N1-IV). R N121 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group or a pentyl group. N122 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.

[0074] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-2) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0075] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0076] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by general formula (N-1-2) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0077] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-2) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (N-1-2.1) to (N-1-2.10), and is preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-2.3) to (N-1-2.6), (N-1-2.7), (N-1-2.8) and (N-1-2.10). When emphasis is placed on improving Δε, the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-2.3) to (N-1-2.6) are preferred. NI When emphasis is placed on the improvement of the above, the compounds represented by formula (N-1-2.7), formula (N-1-2.8) and formula (N-1-2.10) are preferred.

[0078] [ka]

[0079] The compounds represented by formulas (N-1-2.1) to (N-1-2.10) can be used alone or in combination, but the preferred lower limit of the content of each of these compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0080] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-3) is the following compound.

[0081] [ka]

[0082] (In the formula, R N131 and R N132 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-, excluding the compound represented by formula (N1-III). R N131 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group. N132 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.

[0083] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-3) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0084] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0085] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by general formula (N-1-3) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0086] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-3) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (N-1-3.1) to (N-1-3.8), preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-3.1) to (N-1-3.6), and more preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-3.1), (N-1-3.2), (N-1-3.3), and (N-1-3.5).

[0087] [ka]

[0088] The compounds represented by formulas (N-1-3.1) to (N-1-3.8) can be used alone or in combination, but formula (N-1-3.1) alone or a combination of two or three compounds selected from formulas (N-1-3.2), (N-1-3.3), and (N-1-3.5) is preferred, and the preferred lower limit of the content of a single compound or these compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%, respectively.

[0089] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-4) is the following compound.

[0090] [ka]

[0091] (In the formula, R N141 and R N142 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-4), R N141 and R N142 are each independently preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably a methyl group, a propyl group or an ethoxy group.

[0092] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-4) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0093] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0094] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-4) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0095] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-4) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (N-1-4.1) to (N-1-4.18), preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-4.1) to (N-1-4.5), more preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-4.1), (N-1-4.2) and (N-1-4.4), and most preferably a compound represented by formula (N-1-4.4).

[0096] [ka]

[0097] The compounds represented by formulas (N-1-4.1) to (N-1-4.14) can be used alone or in combination, but the preferred lower limit of the content of each of these compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0098] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-5) is the following compound.

[0099] [ka]

[0100] (In the formula, R N151 and R N152 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-5), R N151 and R N152 are each independently preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0101] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-5) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0102] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, it is more effective to set the content lower. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0103] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-5) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0104] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-5) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (N-1-5.1) to (N-1-5.6), and the compounds represented by formulas (N-1-5.1), (N-1-5.2) and (N-1-5.4) are preferred.

[0105] [ka]

[0106] The compounds represented by formula (N-1-5.1), formula (N-1-5.2), and formula (N-1-5.4) can be used alone or in combination, but the preferred lower limit of the content of each of these compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0107] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-10) is the following compound.

[0108] [ka]

[0109] (In the formula, R N1101 and R N1102each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-10), R N1101 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group. N1102 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0110] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-10) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0111] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, it is more effective to set the content lower. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0112] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-10) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0113] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-10) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (N-1-10.1) to (N-1-10.15), preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-10.1) to (N-1-10.5), more preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-10.1) and (N-1-10.2), and more preferably a compound represented by formula (N-1-10.2).

[0114] [ka] The compounds represented by formulae (N-1-10.1) to (N-1-10.15) can be used alone or in combination, but the preferred lower limit of the content of each of these compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0115] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-11) is the following compound.

[0116] [ka]

[0117] (In the formula, R N1111 and R N1112 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-, excluding the compound represented by formula (N1-I). In general formula (N-1-11), R N1111 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group. N1112is preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0118] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-11) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0119] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, it is more effective to set the content lower. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0120] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-11) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0121] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-11) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (N-1-11.1) to (N-1-11.5), more preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-11.1) to (N-1-11.3), and most preferably a compound represented by formula (N-1-11.2).

[0122] [ka]

[0123] The compounds represented by formulae (N-1-11.1) to (N-1-11.5) can be used alone or in combination, but the preferred lower limit of the content of each of these compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0124] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-12) is the following compound.

[0125] [ka]

[0126] (In the formula, R N1121 and R N1122 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-12), R N1121 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably an ethyl group or a propyl group. N1122 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0127] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-12) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0128] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0129] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-12) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0130] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-13) is the following compound.

[0131] [ka]

[0132] (In the formula, R N1131 and R N1132 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-13), R N1131 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group. N1132 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0133] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-13) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0134] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0135] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-13) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0136] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-14) is the following compound.

[0137] [ka]

[0138] (In the formula, R N1141 and R N1142 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-14), R N1141R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group. N1142 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0139] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-14) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0140] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content in the middle range.

[0141] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-14) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0142] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-15) is the following compound.

[0143] [ka]

[0144] (In the formula, R N1151 and R N1152each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-15), R N1151 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group. N1152 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0145] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-15) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0146] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0147] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-15) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0148] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-16) is the following compound.

[0149] [ka]

[0150] (In the formula, R N1161 and R N1162 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-16), R N1161 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group. N1162 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0151] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-16) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0152] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0153] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-16) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0154] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-17) is the following compound.

[0155] [ka]

[0156] (In the formula, R N1171 and R N1172 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-17), R N1171 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group. N1172 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0157] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-17) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0158] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0159] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-17) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0160] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-18) is the following compound.

[0161] [ka]

[0162] (In the formula, R N1181 and R N1182 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-, excluding the compound represented by formula (N1-V). In general formula (N-1-18), R N1181 R is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and is preferably a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group. N1182 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 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.

[0163] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-18) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0164] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0165] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-18) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0166] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-18) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (N-1-18.1) to (N-1-18.4), preferably compounds represented by formulas (N-1-18.1) to (N-1-18.3), and more preferably compounds represented by formulas (N-1-18.2) and (N-1-18.3).

[0167] [ka]

[0168] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-20) is the following compound.

[0169] [ka]

[0170] (In the formula, R N1201 and R N1202 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. In general formula (N-1-20), R N1201 and R N1202 are each independently preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group.

[0171] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-20) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0172] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0173] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-20) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0174] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-22) is the following compound.

[0175] [ka]

[0176] (In the formula, R N1221 and R N1222 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-, provided that the compounds represented by formula (N1-VI) are excluded. In general formula (N-1-22), R N1221 and R N1222 are each independently preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and more preferably an ethyl group, a propyl group, or a butyl group.

[0177] The compound represented by general formula (N-1-22) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one, two, three, four, or five or more.

[0178] When the improvement of Δε is important, it is preferable to set the content higher. When the solubility at low temperatures is important, setting the content higher is effective. NI Furthermore, when it is desired to improve drop marks and image sticking characteristics, it is preferable to set the content to the middle of the range.

[0179] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (N-1-22) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 0.5 mass%, 1 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 2 mass%, or 2.5 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 6.5 mass%, 6 mass%, 5.5 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0180] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (N-1-22) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (N-1-22.1) to (N-1-22.5), preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-22.1) to (N-1-22.4), and more preferably a compound represented by formulas (N-1-22.1) to (N-1-22.3).

[0181] [ka]

[0182] Among these, as compound (N-1) having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than -2, it is preferable to use one or more compounds represented by compound (N-1-11). A combination of one or more of compounds (N-1-1), (N-1-4), and (N-1-5) with one or more of compounds (N-1-11) and (N-1-18) is preferred, and a combination of one or more of compounds (N-1-1) and (N-1-4) with compound (N-1-11) is more preferred.

[0183] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention contains, as an essential component, a compound represented by formula (L-10-1) which is a dielectrically nearly neutral compound (-2<Δε<2).

[0184] [ka]

[0185] By using the compound represented by formula (L-10-1) in combination with a liquid crystal compound having a specific structure and negative dielectric anisotropy in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, a liquid crystal composition with excellent storage stability can be obtained, and various physical properties such as high-speed response of the resulting liquid crystal display device can be improved. The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (L-1-10) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 2 mass%, 4 mass%, 5 mass%, 10 mass%, 15 mass%, 16 mass%, 17 mass%, 18 mass%, 20 mass%, 21 mass%, 22 mass%, or 23 mass%. The preferred upper limit of the content is 38 mass%, 35 mass%, 32 mass%, 30 mass%, or 29 mass% relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0186] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably further contains a compound represented by formula (L-10-2) as a dielectrically nearly neutral compound (-2<Δε<2).

[0187] [ka]

[0188] By using the compound represented by formula (L-10-2) in combination with a liquid crystal compound having a specific structure and negative dielectric anisotropy and a liquid crystal compound represented by formula (L-10-1) in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, a liquid crystal composition with excellent storage stability can be obtained, and various physical properties such as high-speed response of the resulting liquid crystal display device can be improved. The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (L-10-2) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 8 mass%, or 10 mass%. The preferred upper limit of the content is 40 mass%, 35 mass%, 25 mass%, 22 mass%, 20 mass%, 17 mass%, or 15 mass% relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0189] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably further contains one or more liquid crystal compounds represented by general formula (L) which are dielectrically nearly neutral (-2<Δε<2). (Compound (L))

[0190] [ka]

[0191] (In the formula, R L1 and R L2 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, in which one or two or more non-adjacent -CH- groups may each independently be replaced by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-; n L1 represents 0, 1, 2 or 3, A L1 , A L2 and A L3 are each independently (a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one -CH2- or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups may be replaced by -O-), and (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups may be replaced by -N=). (c) A naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group may be replaced by -N=). wherein the groups (a), (b) and (c) may each independently be substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; Z L1 and Z L2each independently represents a single bond, -CH2CH2-, -(CH2)4-, -OCH2-, -CHO-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCF2-, -CF2O-, -CH=NN=CH-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-, n L1 is 2 or 3 and A L2 When there are multiple n, they may be the same or different. L1 is 2 or 3 and Z L2 When a plurality of are present, they may be the same or different, but exclude compounds represented by general formula (N1), formula (N1-I), formula (N1-II), formula (N1-III), formula (N1-IV), formula (N1-V), formula (N1-VI), formula (L-10-1) and formula (L-10-2). The compound represented by general formula (L) may be used alone or in combination. There is no particular limitation on the type of compound that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the desired performance, such as low-temperature solubility, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, for example, one type of compound is used. Alternatively, in another embodiment of the present invention, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten or more types of compounds are used.

[0192] In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the content of the compound represented by general formula (L) needs to be appropriately adjusted depending on the required performance such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, birefringence, process compatibility, drop marks, image sticking, and dielectric anisotropy.

[0193] R if reliability is important L1 and R L2 Preferably, both of are alkyl groups, and when emphasis is placed on reducing the volatility of the compound, they are preferably alkoxy groups, and when emphasis is placed on reducing the viscosity, it is preferable that at least one of them is an alkenyl group.

[0194] R L1 and RL2 When the ring structure to which it is bonded is a phenyl group (aromatic), it is 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, and when the ring structure to which it is bonded is a saturated ring structure such as cyclohexane, pyran, or dioxane, 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, it is preferable that the total number of carbon atoms and, if present, oxygen atoms is 5 or less, and it is preferably linear.

[0195] The alkenyl group is preferably selected from groups represented by any one of formulas (R1) to (R9). (The black dots in each formula represent carbon atoms in the ring structure.)

[0196] [ka]

[0197] n L1 is preferably 0 when emphasis is placed on response speed, is preferably 2 or 3 in order to improve the maximum temperature of the nematic phase, and is preferably 1 in order to strike a balance between these. In addition, it is preferable to combine compounds with different values ​​in order to satisfy the properties required of the composition.

[0198] A L1 , A L2 and A L3are preferably aromatic when an increase in Δn is required, and are preferably aliphatic in order to improve the response speed, and each independently represent preferably a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-phenylene group, a 2-fluoro-1,4-phenylene group, a 3-fluoro-1,4-phenylene group, a 3,5-difluoro-1,4-phenylene group, a 1,4-cyclohexenylene group, a 1,4-bicyclo[2.2.2]octylene group, a piperidine-1,4-diyl group, a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, and more preferably represent the following structure:

[0199] [ka]

[0200] More preferably, it represents a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group.

[0201] Z L1 and Z L2 is preferably a single bond when emphasis is placed on response speed.

[0202] The number of halogen atoms in the molecule is preferably 0 or 1.

[0203] The compound represented by general formula (L) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by general formula (ii-1), general formula (ii-3), general formula (ii-4), general formula (L-2), general formula (L-4), general formula (L-5), general formula (L-6), and / or (L-7).

[0204] The compound represented by general formula (L) is preferably a compound represented by general formula (ii-1) (excluding compounds represented by formula (L-10-1) and formula (L-10-2)).

[0205] [ka]

[0206] (In the formula, R ii11 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, and R ii2 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. The preferred lower limit of the content is 0 mass %, 1 mass %, or 2 mass % relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compound contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass %, 5 mass %, or 3 mass % relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compound contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0207] The compound represented by general formula (ii-1) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulae (ii-1.11) to (ii-1.14).

[0208] [ka]

[0209] The preferred lower limit of the content of each of the compounds represented by formulae (ii-1.11) to (ii-1.14) or the total content of the compounds relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass %, 1 mass %, or 2 mass %. The preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass %, 5 mass %, or 3 mass % relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0210] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (ii-1) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (ii-1.21) to (ii-1.24), and is preferably a compound represented by formulas (ii-1.23) to (ii-1.24).

[0211] [ka]

[0212] The preferred lower limit of the content of each of the compounds represented by formulae (ii-1.21) to (ii-1.24) or the total content of the compounds relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass %, 1 mass %, or 2 mass %. The preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass %, 5 mass %, or 3 mass % relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0213] The compound represented by general formula (ii-1) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formula (ii-1.31) and formula (ii-1.41).

[0214] [ka]

[0215] The preferred lower limit of the content of each of the compounds represented by formulae (ii-1.31) to (ii-1.41) or the total content of the compounds relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass %, 1 mass %, or 2 mass %. The preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass %, 5 mass %, or 3 mass % relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0216] The compound represented by general formula (L) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by general formula (ii-3) and / or (ii-4).

[0217] [ka]

[0218] (R in the formula ii31 and R ii41each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. R ii31 and R ii32 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.

[0219] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (ii-3) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, or 2 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass%, 5 mass%, or 3 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0220] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (ii-4) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, or 2 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass%, 5 mass%, or 3 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0221] Furthermore, the compounds represented by general formulas (ii-3) and (ii-4) are preferably compounds selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (ii-3.1) to (ii-4.3), and are preferably compounds represented by formula (ii-3.2) or formula (ii-4.2).

[0222] [ka]

[0223] The preferred lower limit of the content of each of the compounds represented by formulas (ii-3.1) to (ii-4.3) or the total content of the compounds, relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, is 0 mass %, 1 mass %, or 2 mass %. The preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass %, 5 mass %, or 3 mass %, relative to the total amount of the liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0224] The compound represented by general formula (L) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by general formula (L-2).

[0225] The compound represented by general formula (L-2) is the following compound.

[0226] [ka]

[0227] (In the formula, R L21 and R L22 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. R L21 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and R L22 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.

[0228] The compound represented by general formula (L-2) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0229] The preferred lower limit of the total content of the compounds represented by formula (L-2) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, or 2 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass%, 5 mass%, or 3 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0230] Furthermore, the compound represented by general formula (L-2) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (L-2.1) to (L-2.6), and is preferably a compound represented by formula (L-2.1), formula (L-2.3), formula (L-2.4), or formula (L-2.6).

[0231] [ka]

[0232] The preferred lower limit of the content of each of the compounds represented by formulae (L-2.1) to (L-2.6) or the total content of the compounds is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, or 2 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention. The preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass%, 5 mass%, or 3 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0233] The compound represented by general formula (L) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by general formula (L-4).

[0234] The compound represented by general formula (L-4) is the following compound.

[0235] [ka]

[0236] (In the formula, R L41 and RL42 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. R L41 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and R L42 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.

[0237] The compound represented by general formula (L-4) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but they are used in appropriate combinations depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0238] The preferred lower limit of the total content of the compounds represented by formula (L-4) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, or 2 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass%, 5 mass%, or 3 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0239] The compound represented by general formula (L-4) is preferably a compound represented by formula (L-4.1) to formula (L-4.3), for example.

[0240] [ka]

[0241] Depending on the required performance, such as low-temperature solubility, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence, the composition may contain a compound represented by formula (L-4.1), a compound represented by formula (L-4.2), both a compound represented by formula (L-4.1) and a compound represented by formula (L-4.2), or all of the compounds represented by formulas (L-4.1) to (L-4.3).

[0242] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (L-4.1) or formula (L-4.2) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, or 9 mass%, and the preferred upper limit is 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0243] When the liquid crystal composition of the present invention contains both a compound represented by formula (L-4.1) and a compound represented by formula (L-4.2), the preferred lower limit of the content of both compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, or 9%, and the preferred upper limit is 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0244] The compound represented by general formula (L-4) is preferably a compound represented by, for example, formula (L-4.4) to formula (L-4.6), and more preferably a compound represented by formula (L-4.4).

[0245] [ka]

[0246] Depending on the required performance, such as low-temperature solubility, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence, the composition may contain a compound represented by formula (L-4.4), a compound represented by formula (L-4.5), or both a compound represented by formula (L-4.4) and a compound represented by formula (L-4.5).

[0247] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compound represented by formula (L-4.4) and / or formula (L-4.5) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, 9 mass%, or 10 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the total content is 25 mass%, 20 mass%, 18 mass%, 15 mass%, 13 mass%, or 11 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0248] The compound represented by general formula (L-4) is preferably a compound represented by formula (L-4.7) to formula (L-4.10), and particularly preferably a compound represented by formula (L-4.9).

[0249] [ka]

[0250] The preferred lower limit of the content of the compounds represented by formula (L-4.7), formula (L-4.8), formula (L-4.9) and / or formula (L-4.10) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, or 9 mass%, and the preferred upper limit is 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0251] The compound represented by general formula (L) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by general formula (L-5).

[0252] The compound represented by general formula (L-5) is the following compound.

[0253] [ka]

[0254] (In the formula, R L51 and R L52 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-. R L51 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and R L52 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.

[0255] The compound represented by general formula (L-5) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but appropriate combinations are used depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperatures, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0256] The preferred lower limit of the total content of the compounds represented by formula (L-5) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, or 2 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass%, 5 mass%, or 3 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0257] The compound represented by general formula (L-5) is preferably a compound represented by formula (L-5.1), formula (L-5.2) or formula (L-5.3), and particularly preferably a compound represented by formula (L-5.1).

[0258] When these compounds are used alone or in combination with one another, the preferred lower limit of the content relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, or 9 mass%, and the preferred upper limit is 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0259] [ka]

[0260] The compound represented by general formula (L-5) is preferably a compound represented by formula (L-5.3) or formula (L-5.4).

[0261] The preferred lower limit of the content of these compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, or 9 mass%, and the preferred upper limit is 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0262] [ka]

[0263] The compound represented by general formula (L-5) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by formulas (L-5.5) to (L-5.7), and is particularly preferably a compound represented by formula (L-5.7).

[0264] The preferred lower limit of the content of these compounds relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, 3 mass%, 5 mass%, 7 mass%, or 9 mass%, and the preferred upper limit is 15 mass%, 13 mass%, 10 mass%, 8 mass%, or 5 mass%.

[0265] [ka]

[0266] The compound represented by general formula (L) is preferably a compound selected from the group of compounds represented by general formula (L-6).

[0267] The compound represented by general formula (L-6) is the following compound.

[0268] [ka]

[0269] (In the formula, R L61 and R L62 each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, in which one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups may each independently be replaced by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO-, or -OCO-; X L61 and X L62 each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom. R L61 and R L62 are each independently preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and X L61 and X L62 It is preferred that one of these is a fluorine atom and the other is a hydrogen atom.

[0270] The compound represented by general formula (L-6) can be used alone, or two or more compounds can be used in combination. There is no particular limitation on the types of compounds that can be combined, but they are appropriately combined depending on the required performance, such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electrical reliability, and birefringence. In one embodiment of the present invention, the types of compounds used are, for example, one type, two types, three types, four types, or five or more types.

[0271] The preferred lower limit of the total content of the compounds represented by formula (L-6) relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is 0 mass%, 1 mass%, or 2 mass%, and the preferred upper limit of the content is 7 mass%, 5 mass%, or 3 mass%, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

[0272] The upper limit of the total content of compounds having an alkenyl group relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is preferably 30% by mass, 25% by mass, 20% by mass, 15% by mass, 13% by mass, or 10% by mass. Although the inclusion of a compound having an alkenyl group is effective in improving the response speed, it may have undesirable effects in terms of reliability and wavelength dispersion of Δn. Therefore, the compound represented by formula (L) and the compound represented by formula (N-1) are preferably compounds having no alkenyl group, and more preferably, the composition does not substantially contain any compound having an alkenyl group other than the compound represented by formula (IV).

[0273] The composition of the present invention preferably does not contain a compound having a structure in which oxygen atoms are bonded together, such as a peroxy acid (—CO—OO—) structure, in the molecule.

[0274] When reliability and long-term stability of the composition are important, the content of the compound having a carbonyl group is preferably 5% by mass or less, more preferably 3% by mass or less, even more preferably 1% by mass or less, and most preferably substantially none, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition.

[0275] When stability against UV irradiation is important, the content of compounds substituted with chlorine atoms is preferably 15% by mass or less, more preferably 10% by mass or less, more preferably 8% by mass or less, more preferably 5% by mass or less, and even more preferably 3% by mass or less, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition, and further preferably substantially none is contained.

[0276] It is preferable to increase the content of compounds in which all intramolecular ring structures are 6-membered rings, and the content of compounds in which all intramolecular ring structures are 6-membered rings is preferably 80% by mass or more, more preferably 90% by mass or more, and even more preferably 95% by mass or more, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition. It is most preferable that the composition is composed essentially of compounds in which all intramolecular ring structures are 6-membered rings.

[0277] In order to improve the tilt stability of the composition, it is preferable to increase the content of compounds having alkyl and alkoxy groups in side chains, and the content of compounds having alkyl and alkoxy groups in side chains is preferably 85% by mass or more, preferably 87% by mass or more, preferably 90% by mass or more, preferably 93% by mass or more, preferably 95% by mass or more, preferably 98% by mass or more, and more preferably substantially 100% by mass, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition. Substantially 100% by mass means 100% by mass excluding polymerizable compounds, stabilizers, and additionally mixed impurities.

[0278] In order to suppress deterioration of the composition due to oxidation, it is preferable to reduce the content of compounds having a cyclohexenylene group as a ring structure, and the content of compounds having a cyclohexenylene group is preferably 10% by mass or less, more preferably 8% by mass or less, more preferably 5% by mass or less, more preferably 3% by mass or less, and even more preferably substantially none, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition.

[0279] When emphasis is placed on improving the viscosity and improving Tni, it is preferable to reduce the content of the compound having a 2-methylbenzene-1,4-diyl group in the molecule, in which a hydrogen atom may be substituted with a halogen, and the content of the compound having a 2-methylbenzene-1,4-diyl group in the molecule is preferably 10% by mass or less, more preferably 8% by mass or less, more preferably 5% by mass or less, and more preferably 3% by mass or less, relative to the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition, and even more preferably substantially none of the compound is contained.

[0280] In this application, "substantially free" means "free of all substances except those that are unintentionally contained." (polymerizable compound) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention may contain a polymerizable compound to produce a liquid crystal display device of a PSA mode, a PSVA mode, a lateral electric field type PSA mode, a lateral electric field type PSVA mode, etc. Examples of polymerizable compounds that can be used include photopolymerizable monomers that undergo polymerization by energy rays such as light, and polymerizable compounds having a liquid crystal skeleton in which multiple six-membered rings are linked together, such as biphenyl derivatives and terphenyl derivatives.

[0281] More specifically, the polymerizable compound represented by the general formula (P) is preferred.

[0282] [ka]

[0283] (In the above general formula (P), R p1 is a hydrogen atom, a fluorine atom, a cyano group, an alkyl group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms, or -Sp p2 -P p2 wherein one or two or more non-adjacent -CH2- groups in the alkyl group are each independently optionally substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-, and one or two 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 are each independently represented by the general formula (P p1 -1)~Formula(P p1 -9)

[0284] [ka]

[0285] (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; W p11 represents a single bond, -O-, -COO- or a methylene group; t p11 represents 0, 1 or 2, but R p11 , R p12 , W p11 and / or t p11 If there are multiple, they may be the same or different.) represents one of the following: Sp p1 and Sp p2 each independently represents a single bond or a spacer group, Z p1 and Z p2 are each independently a single bond, -O-, -S-, -CH2-, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -CO-, -C2H4-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCOOCH2-, -CH2OCOO-, -OCH2CH2O-, or -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) z -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- (wherein R ZP1 are each independently a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, but if R ZP1 If there are multiple, they may be the same or different.) represents A p1 , A p2 and A p3 are each independently (a p ) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one —CH2— or two or more non-adjacent —CH2— groups may be replaced by —O—); (b p ) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups may be replaced by -N=); and (c p a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a naphthalene-1,4-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a phenanthrene-2,7-diyl group, or an anthracene-2,6-diyl group (in which one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups may be replaced by -N=). represents a group selected from the group consisting of the above group (ap ), group (b p ) and group (c p In the formula (I), one or more hydrogen atoms are each independently a halogen atom, a cyano group, an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, or -Sp p2 -P p2 one or two or more non-adjacent —CH— groups in the alkyl group may each independently be replaced by —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—; m p1 represents 0, 1, 2 or 3, and Z p1 , A p2 , Sp p2 and / or P p2 When there are multiple A, they may be the same or different. p3 is m p1 is 0, and A p1 represents a single bond when it is a phenanthrene-2,7-diyl group or an anthracene-2,6-diyl group. In general formula (P), R p1 Ha-Sp p2 -P p2 It is preferable that:

[0286] P p1 and P p2 are each independently expressed as (P p1 -1)~Formula(P p1 -3), and (P p1 -1) is preferable.

[0287] R p11 and R p12 are each preferably independently a hydrogen atom or a methyl group.

[0288] t p11 is preferably 0 or 1.

[0289] W p11 is preferably a single bond, a methylene group or an ethylene group.

[0290] mp1 is preferably 0, 1 or 2, and more preferably 0 or 1.

[0291] Z p1 and Z p2 are each independently a single bond, -OCH2-, -C2O-, -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- is preferred, and a single bond, -OCH2-, -CH2O-, -C2H4-, -COO-, -OCO-, -COOC2H4-, -OCOC2H4-, -C2H4OCO-, -C2H4COO-, -CH=CH-, -(CH2)2-COO-, -(CH2)2-OCO-, -OCO-(CH2)2- or -CH=CH- COO-, -COO-CH=CH-, -OCOCH=CH-, -COO-(CH2)2- or -C≡C- is preferred, and only one of -OCH2-, -CHO-, -C2H4-, -COO-, -OCO-, -COOC2H4-, -OCOC2H4-, -C2H4OCO-, -C2H4COO-, -CH=CH-, -(CH2)2-COO-, -(CH2)2-OCO-, -O It is preferred that the groups are CO-(CH2)2-, -CH=CH-COO-, -COO-CH=CH-, -OCOCH=CH-, -COO-(CH2)2- or -C≡C-, and the others are all single bonds, it is preferred that only one group present in the molecule is -OCH2-, -CHO-, -C2H4-, -COO- or -OCO-, and the others are all single bonds, and it is more preferred that all are single bonds.

[0292] In addition, Z present in the molecule p1 and Z p2It is preferred that only one of the groups is a linking group selected from the group consisting of -CH=CH-COO-, -COO-CH=CH-, -(CH)-COO-, -(CH)-OCO-, -O-CO-(CH)-, and -COO-(CH)-, and the other is a single bond.

[0293] 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, and -CH- in the alkylene group may be substituted with -O-, -CO-, -COO-, -OCO-, -CH=CH- or -C≡C- as long as the oxygen atoms are not directly linked to each other, and a hydrogen atom in the alkylene group may be substituted with a halogen atom, but is preferably a linear alkylene group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or a single bond. A p1 , A p2 and A p3 are each independently preferably a 1,4-phenylene group, a 1,4-cyclohexylene group, or a naphthalene-1,4-diyl group, more preferably a 1,4-phenylene group or a 1,4-cyclohexylene group, and more preferably a 1,4-phenylene group. The 1,4-phenylene group is preferably substituted with one fluorine atom, one methyl group, or one methoxy group to improve compatibility with liquid crystal compounds.

[0294] The total content of the compounds represented by general formula (P) is preferably 0.05 to 10 mass%, more preferably 0.1 to 8 mass%, more preferably 0.1 to 5 mass%, more preferably 0.1 to 3 mass%, more preferably 0.2 to 2 mass%, more preferably 0.2 to 1.3%, more preferably 0.2 to 1 mass%, and more preferably 0.2 to 0.56 mass%, relative to the total amount (100 mass) of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition containing the compound represented by general formula (P) of the present application.

[0295] The preferred lower limit of the total content of the compounds represented by formula (P) 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%, or 0.3 mass%, relative to 100 mass% of the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition containing the compound represented by general formula (P) of the present application.

[0296] The preferred upper limit of the total content of the compounds represented by Formula (P) is 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 5 mass%, 3 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 1.2 mass%, 1 mass%, 0.8 mass%, or 0.5 mass%, relative to 100 mass% of the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present application containing the compound represented by Formula (P).

[0297] If the content is too low, the effect of adding the compound represented by formula (P) is not readily apparent, and problems such as a weak alignment control force of the liquid crystal composition or a weakening over time occur, while if the content is too high, problems such as a large amount remaining after curing, a long curing time, a decrease in the reliability of the liquid crystal, etc. Therefore, the content is set by taking these factors into consideration.

[0298] Preferred examples of the compound represented by formula (P) include polymerizable compounds represented by the following formulae (P-1-1) to (P-1-54).

[0299] [ka]

[0300] [ka]

[0301] [ka]

[0302] [ka]

[0303] [ka]

[0304] [ka]

[0305] [ka]

[0306] (In the formula, P p11 , P p12 , Sp p11 and Sp p12 respectively represent P in general formula (P) p1 , P p2 , Sp p1 and Sp p2 It has the same meaning as Preferred examples of the compound represented by general formula (P) according to the present invention include polymerizable compounds represented by the following formulae (P-2-1) to (P-2-29).

[0307] [ka]

[0308] [ka]

[0309] [ka]

[0310] [ka]

[0311] (In the formula, P p21 , P p22 , Sp p21 and Sp p22 respectively represent P in general formula (P) p1 , P p2 , Sp p1 and Sp p2 It has the same meaning as Preferred examples of the compound represented by general formula (P) according to the present invention include polymerizable compounds represented by the following formulae (P-3-1) to (P-3-15).

[0312] [ka]

[0313] [ka]

[0314] (In the formula, P p31 , P p32 , Sp p31 and Sp p32 respectively represent P in general formula (P) p1 , P p2 , Sp p1 and Sp p2 It has the same meaning as Preferred examples of the compound represented by general formula (P) according to the present invention include polymerizable compounds represented by the following formulae (P-4-1) to (P-4-19).

[0315] [ka]

[0316] [ka]

[0317] [ka]

[0318] [ka]

[0319] (In the formula, P p41 , P p42 , Sp p41 and Sp p42 respectively represent P in general formula (P) p1 , P p2 , Sp p1 and Sp p2 It means the same as "P" and is plural. p42 , Sp p42 may be the same or different.) When a polymerizable monomer is used in the present invention, the polymerizable monomer may be used alone or in combination of two or more. In particular, by using a combination of two or more polymerizable monomers having different polymerization reaction rates, it is possible to appropriately control the polymerization reaction rate, reduce the amount of residual monomer, and impart an appropriate pretilt angle, which is preferable. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of the balance between storage stability and polymerization reaction rate, it is preferable to use two or more polymerizable monomers in combination. When two or more polymerizable monomers are used, it is preferable to use two or more compounds represented by the above formula (P) in combination.

[0320] The total content of the compounds represented by general formula (P) is preferably 0.05 to 1 mass%, more preferably 0.1 to 8 mass%, more preferably 0.1 to 5 mass%, more preferably 0.1 to 3 mass%, more preferably 0.2 to 2 mass%, more preferably 0.2 to 1.3 mass%, more preferably 0.2 to 1 mass%, and more preferably 0.2 to 0.56 mass%, relative to the total amount (100 mass) of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition containing these compounds.

[0321] The preferred lower limit of the total content of the compounds represented by general formula (P) 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%, or 0.3 mass%, relative to 100 mass% of the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition containing those compounds.

[0322] The preferred upper limit of the total content of the compounds represented by general formula (P) is 10 mass%, 8 mass%, 5 mass%, 3 mass%, 1.5 mass%, 1.2 mass%, 1 mass%, 0.8 mass%, or 0.5 mass%, relative to 100 mass% of the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition containing those compounds.

[0323] If the content is too low, the effect of adding the compound represented by general formula (P) is not readily apparent, and problems such as a weak alignment control force of the liquid crystal composition or a weakening over time occur, while if the content is too high, problems such as a large amount remaining after curing, a long curing time, a decrease in the reliability of the liquid crystal, etc. Therefore, the content is set by taking these factors into consideration. (Other additives) The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains one or more additives such as an antioxidant, a light stabilizer such as HALS, a dye, a dichroic dye, or a fluorescent dye.

[0324] By including an antioxidant or a light stabilizer in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, light leakage can be further suppressed or prevented in a liquid crystal display device using the composition. As the antioxidant or light stabilizer, a compound (Q) having the following structure is preferred.

[0325] [ka]

[0326] (In the formula, R Qrepresents a hydroxyl group, a hydrogen atom, or a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, in which one or more CH groups in the alkyl group may be substituted with -O-, -CH=CH-, -CO-, -OCO-, -COO-, -C≡C-, -CF2O-, or -OCF2- so that the oxygen atom is not directly adjacent, and * is used to bond to another structure.) R Q represents a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, in which one or more CH groups may be substituted by -O-, -CH=CH-, -CO-, -OCO-, -COO-, -C≡C-, -CF2O-, or -OCF2- so that oxygen atoms are not directly adjacent to the alkyl group; however, a linear alkyl group, a linear alkoxy group, a linear alkyl group having one CH group substituted with -OCO- or -COO-, a branched alkyl group, a branched alkoxy group, or a branched alkyl group having one CH group substituted with -OCO- or -COO-, each having 1 to 10 carbon atoms is preferred, and a linear alkyl group, a linear alkyl group having one CH group substituted with -OCO- or -COO-, a branched alkyl group, a branched alkoxy group, or a branched alkyl group having one CH group substituted with -OCO- or -COO-, each having 1 to 20 carbon atoms is more preferred.

[0327] More specifically, the compound (Q) is preferably a compound represented by the following general formula (Qa) to general formula (Qd).

[0328] [ka]

[0329] In the formula, R Q1 is preferably a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and R Q2 is preferably a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, and R Q3 is preferably a linear alkyl group, a branched alkyl group, a linear alkoxy group or a branched alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and L Qis preferably a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms. In the compound represented by general formula (Qc), one or more -CH2- in the 1,4-cyclohexylene group may be substituted with an oxygen atom so that they are not directly adjacent to each other.

[0330] Among the compounds represented by general formulae (Qa) to (Qd), the compounds represented by general formulae (Qc) and (Qd) are more preferred.

[0331] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains one or two compounds represented by general formula (Q), more preferably one to five compounds, and the content thereof is preferably 0.001 to 1 mass %, more preferably 0.001 to 0.1 mass %, and particularly preferably 0.001 to 0.05 mass %, relative to 100 mass % of the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition.

[0332] More specifically, the antioxidants usable in the present invention are preferably the compounds represented by the following formulas (Q-1) to (Q-34), (Q-37), and (Q-38). Furthermore, the light stabilizers usable in the present invention are more specifically, preferably the compounds represented by the following formulas (Q-34) to (Q-36), and (Q-39) to (Q-44). The compound represented by formula (Q-34) can be used as either an antioxidant or a light stabilizer.

[0333] [ka]

[0334] [ka]

[0335] [ka]

[0336] [ka]

[0337] [ka]

[0338] [ka]

[0339] [ka]

[0340] [ka]

[0341] [ka]

[0342] [ka]

[0343] (In the formula, n represents an integer of 0 to 20.) Among the compounds represented by (Q-1) to (Q-44), the compounds represented by (Q-4) to (Q-6), (Q-21), (Q-22), (Q-35), (Q-39), and (Q-41) are preferred, and the compound represented by (Q-6) is more preferred.

[0344] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains one or two, more preferably one to five, of the compounds represented by (Q-1) to (Q-44), and the content thereof is preferably 0.001 to 1 mass %, more preferably 0.001 to 0.1 mass %, and particularly preferably 0.001 to 0.05 mass %, relative to 100 mass % of the total amount of liquid crystal compounds contained in the liquid crystal composition.

[0345] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention may contain, in addition to the above-mentioned compounds, a normal nematic liquid crystal, a smectic liquid crystal, a cholesteric liquid crystal, an ultraviolet absorber, a light stabilizer, an infrared absorber, or the like.

[0346] Generally, various parameters calculated from the physical properties of liquid crystal compositions are used to express the characteristics of liquid crystal display elements. These include the γ1 / K, which is a parameter that governs the response time in the case of vertical alignment (VA) liquid crystal display elements, polymer-supported vertical alignment (PSA) or polymer-stabilized vertical alignment (PSVA) liquid crystal display elements. 33 , K, which is a parameter that governs the steepness of the electro-optic effect 33 / K 11 and √|K, which is the parameter that governs the driving voltage. 33 / Δε|, etc. The liquid crystal composition of the present invention achieves high speed response, low driving voltage, and high transmittance all at once.

[0347] Therefore, the parameter that governs the response speed, γ1 / K 33 is 9.0 mPa·s·pN -1 Preferably less than 8.5 mPa·s·pN -1 Preferably less than 8.0 mPa·s·pN -1 Preferably less than 7.5 mPa·s·pN -1 Preferably less than 7.0 mPa·s·pN -1 Preferably less than 6.2 mPa·s·pN -1 Preferably less than 6.0 mPa·s·pN -1 The following are particularly preferred:

[0348] K, a parameter that governs the steepness of the electro-optic effect 33 / K 11 is preferably 0.80 or more, preferably 0.82 or more, preferably 0.84 or more, preferably 0.86 or more, preferably 0.88 or more, preferably 0.90 or more, preferably 0.92 or more, preferably 0.94 or more, preferably 0.95 or more, and most preferably 0.96 or more.

[0349] √|K, the parameter that governs the driving voltage33 / Δε| is 3.0 pN -1 / 2 Preferably less than 2.8 pN -1 / 2 Less than 2.6 pN is preferred -1 / 2 Less than 2.4 pN is preferred -1 / 2 Preferably less than 2.3 pN -1 / 2 Preferably less than 2.25 pN -1 / 2 Preferably less than 2.20 pN -1 / 2 Preferably less than 2.15 pN -1 / 2 The following are particularly preferred:

[0350] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention is preferably used in a liquid crystal display device in which the polymerizable compound contained therein is polymerized by ultraviolet irradiation to impart liquid crystal alignment ability, and the amount of transmitted light is controlled by utilizing the birefringence of the composition. <Liquid crystal display element> Liquid crystal display elements using the composition of the present invention are useful because they are free from display defects and combine high transmittance, high-speed response, a wide operating temperature range, and good contrast, and are particularly useful as active matrix driven liquid crystal display elements, and can be applied to VA mode, PSVA mode, PSA mode, IPS mode, FFS mode, or ECB mode liquid crystal display elements. In particular, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is suitable for VA mode, IPS mode, and FFS mode liquid crystal display elements.

[0351] The liquid crystal display element of the present invention preferably comprises a first substrate and a second substrate disposed opposite each other, a common electrode provided on the first substrate or the second substrate, pixel electrodes having thin film transistors provided on the first substrate or the second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer containing a liquid crystal composition provided between the first substrate and the second substrate. If necessary, an alignment film for controlling the alignment direction of liquid crystal molecules may be provided on the opposing surface of at least one of the first and / or second substrates so as to abut against the liquid crystal layer. The alignment film may be a vertical alignment film, a horizontal alignment film, or any other suitable film depending on the driving mode of the liquid crystal display element. Known alignment films, such as a rubbed alignment film (e.g., polyimide) or a photo-aligned film (e.g., decomposable polyimide), may also be used. Furthermore, a color filter may be provided on the first substrate or the second substrate, as appropriate, or on the pixel electrode or the common electrode.

[0352] The components and manufacturing method of the liquid crystal display element of the present invention are not particularly limited, and the liquid crystal display element can be constructed and manufactured using general components and manufacturing methods.

[0353] When the liquid crystal composition of the present invention contains a polymerizable compound, the method for polymerizing the polymerizable compound is not particularly limited. However, to obtain good alignment performance of the liquid crystal, it is desirable to polymerize at an appropriate polymerization rate. Therefore, a polymerization method using actinic energy rays such as ultraviolet light or electron beams, either singly, in combination, or sequentially, is preferred. When using ultraviolet light, a polarized or non-polarized light source may be used. Furthermore, when polymerizing a liquid crystal composition sandwiched between two substrates, at least the substrate on the irradiated side must be appropriately transparent to actinic energy rays. Alternatively, a method may be used in which only specific portions are polymerized using a mask during light irradiation, and then the alignment state of the unpolymerized portions is changed by changing conditions such as the electric field, magnetic field, or temperature, and then further irradiated with actinic energy rays for polymerization. In particular, when exposing to ultraviolet light, it is preferable to expose the liquid crystal composition to ultraviolet light while applying a DC or AC electric field. The applied AC electric field preferably has a frequency of 1 Hz to 10 kHz, more preferably 60 Hz to 10 kHz, and the voltage is selected depending on the desired pretilt angle of the liquid crystal display device. In other words, the pretilt angle of the liquid crystal display element can be controlled by the applied voltage. In a PSA or PSVA liquid crystal display element, it is preferable to control the pretilt angle to be between 80 degrees and 89.9 degrees from the viewpoints of alignment stability and contrast.

[0354] In a PSA-type or PSVA-type liquid crystal display element, if a polymerizable compound remains unpolymerized after the element is manufactured, image sticking (IS) occurs. The amount of the remaining polymerizable compound is preferably 100 ppm or less, more preferably 50 ppm or less, more preferably 30 ppm or less, more preferably 20 ppm or less, more preferably 15 ppm or less, particularly preferably 10 ppm or less, and particularly preferably below the lower detection limit or 0.

[0355] The temperature during irradiation with active energy rays such as ultraviolet rays or electron beams used to polymerize the polymerizable compound contained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is not particularly limited. For example, when the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is applied to a liquid crystal display device having a substrate with an alignment film, the temperature is preferably within a range in which the liquid crystal state of the liquid crystal composition is maintained. That is, polymerization is preferably carried out at 15 to 50°C.

[0356] Lamps that generate ultraviolet light can include metal halide lamps, high-pressure mercury lamps, and ultra-high-pressure mercury lamps. Ultra-high-pressure UV lamps from USHIO and fluorescent ultraviolet lamps from TOSHIBA are preferred, and LED lamps are also preferred. Furthermore, the wavelength of the ultraviolet light to be irradiated is preferably within a wavelength range that is not within the absorption wavelength range of the liquid crystal composition, and it is preferable to cut out ultraviolet light on the shorter wavelength side as necessary. The intensity of the ultraviolet light to be irradiated is 0.1 mW / cm. 2 ~100W / cm 2 is preferred, and 2 mW / cm 2 ~50W / cm 2 The energy amount of the ultraviolet light to be irradiated can be adjusted appropriately, but is preferably 10 mJ / cm 2 to 500J / cm 2 is preferred, and 100 mJ / cm 2 to 200 J / cm 2 is more preferred.

[0357] A liquid crystal display element using the composition of the present invention is useful because it combines high-speed response with suppression of display defects, and is particularly useful as an active matrix drive liquid crystal display element, and can be applied to VA mode, PSVA mode, PSA mode, IPS mode, FFS mode, or ECB mode liquid crystal display elements.

[0358] Furthermore, in the manufacturing process of liquid crystal display elements using the ODF method, it is necessary to dispense an optimal amount of liquid crystal depending on the size of the liquid crystal display element, but the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is less affected by, for example, sudden pressure changes and shocks that occur in the dispensing device during dispensing, and it is possible to continue dispensing liquid crystal stably for a long period of time, thereby maintaining a high yield of liquid crystal display elements. In particular, for small liquid crystal display elements frequently used in recently popular smartphones, the optimal amount of liquid crystal dispensed is small, making it difficult to control the deviation from the optimal value within a certain range. However, by using the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, a stable amount of liquid crystal material can be dispensed even in small liquid crystal display elements. [Example]

[0359] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. Furthermore, "%" in the compositions of the following examples and comparative examples means "% by mass."

[0360] In the examples, the measured properties are as follows:

[0361] T ni : Nematic-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (℃) Δn: Refractive index anisotropy at 298K Δε: Dielectric anisotropy at 298K γ1: Rotational viscosity at 298K (mPa·s) K 11 : Elastic constant of splay at 298K (pN) K 33 : Elastic constant of bending at 298K (pN) K ave :(K 33 +K 11 ) / 2, the average elastic constant (pN) at 298K Unless otherwise specified, each physical property value was measured based on the method described in the "Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association Standard JEITA ED-2521B (revised March 2009, published by the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association)." In the examples, the following abbreviations are used to describe compounds. <Ring structure>

[0362] [ka]

[0363] <Side chain structure>

[0364] [Table 1]

[0365] (However, n in the table is a natural number.) <Connection structure>

[0366] [Table 2]

[0367] (However, n in the table is a natural number.) <Evaluation of liquid crystal display elements> To evaluate the properties of horizontally aligned liquid crystal display elements, the prepared liquid crystal compositions were vacuum injected into a cell with a comb-shaped ITO substrate that had been coated with a polyimide alignment film that induces homogeneous alignment and then rubbed, to obtain FFS liquid crystal display elements. The electro-optical properties of these obtained FFS liquid crystal display elements were measured, and evaluations were made of the driving voltage, response time, transmittance, contrast, etc. To evaluate the properties of vertically aligned liquid crystal display devices, the prepared liquid crystal compositions were injected into ITO cells coated with a polyimide alignment film that induces homeotropic alignment by vacuum injection to obtain vertically aligned (VA) liquid crystal display devices. The electro-optical properties of these obtained VA liquid crystal display devices were measured, and evaluations were made of the driving voltage, response speed, transmittance, contrast, etc. A) Response speed, transmittance, and driving voltage: The response speed was measured by measuring the time it took for the transmittance to change from 90% to 10% when a specified voltage was applied to a VA or FFS liquid crystal display element. The transmittance and driving voltage were measured by measuring the applied voltage-transmittance curve (VT curve) of the VA or FFS liquid crystal display element. With regard to the Examples, if the element exhibited sufficient performance relative to the required characteristics, it was rated as ○, and if the element did not exhibit sufficient performance relative to the required characteristics, it was rated as ×. With regard to the Comparative Examples, if the element exhibited sufficient performance comparable to that of the liquid crystal display element obtained in the Examples, it was rated as ○, and if it was confirmed that the performance was significantly inferior to that of the liquid crystal display element obtained in the Examples, it was rated as ×. B) Contrast: The contrast is defined as the amount of light transmitted in the bright state divided by the amount of light transmitted in the dark state when a liquid crystal display element is placed between polarizers set at an appropriate angle and a voltage is applied with a constant backlight on. In the present examples, the applied voltage-transmittance curve (VT curve) was measured when a voltage ranging from 0 V to 8.0 V was applied to the fabricated FFS liquid crystal display element, and the maximum amount of light transmitted in the VT curve was defined as the amount of light transmitted in the bright state, and the amount of light transmitted when a voltage of 0 V was applied was defined as the amount of light transmitted in the dark state. The contrast of the fabricated liquid crystal display element was evaluated using the contrast of a liquid crystal display element fabricated using the liquid crystal composition of the present invention as the standard (◯). If the contrast difference between the liquid crystal display elements fabricated using the liquid crystal composition of the corresponding comparative example (Example 1-Comparative Example 1, Example 2-Comparative Example 2, Example 3-Comparative Example 3) was within ±1.0%, the liquid crystal composition of the comparative example was evaluated as ◯. If the contrast difference was greater than 1.0%, the liquid crystal composition of the comparative example was evaluated as x. C) Low temperature storage stability (LTS): The liquid crystal display element was stored at -30°C for 240 hours, and the presence or absence of display defects such as bright spots was confirmed. No display defects were marked with O, and display defects were marked with ×. <Example 1, Comparative Example 1> Liquid crystal compositions LC-01 (Example 1) and LC-A (Comparative Example 1) were prepared and their physical properties were measured. The constitutions of the liquid crystal compositions and the results of their physical properties are shown below.

[0368] [Table 3]

[0369] LC-01 is a parameter that governs the response speed, γ1 / K ave is sufficiently small and the parameter that governs the driving voltage is √|K ave / Δε| is sufficiently low and strongly controls the contrast. ave That is, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is a liquid crystal composition that combines high speed response, high transmittance, low driving voltage, high contrast, and low temperature storage stability.

[0370] On the other hand, LC-A, which does not satisfy the requirement for a liquid crystal compound having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2 used in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, has a γ1 / K ave was larger than that of the LC-01, and the LTS was also not acceptable. <Example 2, Comparative Example 2> Liquid crystal compositions LC-02 (Example 2) and LC-B (Comparative Example 2) were prepared and their physical properties were measured. The constitutions of the liquid crystal compositions and the results of their physical properties are shown below.

[0371] [Table 4]

[0372] LC-02 is a parameter that governs the response speed, γ1 / K ave is sufficiently small and the parameter that governs the driving voltage is √|K ave / Δε| is sufficiently low and strongly controls the contrast. ave That is, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is a liquid crystal composition that combines high speed response, high transmittance, low driving voltage, high contrast, and low temperature storage stability.

[0373] On the other hand, LC-B, which does not satisfy the requirement for a liquid crystal compound having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2 used in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, has a γ1 / K aveis larger than the LC-02, and K strongly dominates the contrast. ave The liquid crystal composition had a lower viscosity than that of the present invention. <Example 3, Comparative Example 3> Liquid crystal compositions LC-03 (Example 3) and LC-C (Comparative Example 3) were prepared and their physical properties were measured. The constitutions of the liquid crystal compositions and the results of their physical properties are shown below.

[0374] [Table 5]

[0375] Both LC-03 and LC-C have a γ1 / K ave is sufficiently small and the parameter that governs the driving voltage is √|K ave / Δε| is sufficiently low and strongly controls the contrast. ave That is, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is a liquid crystal composition that combines high speed response, high transmittance, low driving voltage, high contrast, and low temperature storage stability.

[0376] However, the LC-C, which does not satisfy the requirement of a liquid crystal compound having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2 used in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, has a K ave The liquid crystal composition had a lower viscosity than that of the present invention, and also had poor low-temperature storage stability. Example 4 A liquid crystal composition of LC-04 (Example 4) was prepared and its physical properties were measured. The constitution of the liquid crystal composition and the results of its physical properties are shown below.

[0377] [Table 6]

[0378] LC-04 is a parameter that governs response speed, γ1 / K ave is sufficiently small and the parameter that governs the driving voltage is √|K ave / Δε| is sufficiently low and strongly controls the contrast. ave That is, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is a liquid crystal composition that combines high speed response, high transmittance, low driving voltage, high contrast, and low temperature storage stability. <Examples 5 to 8> Liquid crystal compositions LC-05 (Example 5), LC-06 (Example 6), LC-07 (Example 7), and LC-08 (Example 8) were prepared and their physical properties were measured. The constitutions of the liquid crystal compositions and the results of their physical properties are shown below.

[0379] [Table 7]

[0380] LC-05 to LC-08 all have a γ1 / K ave is sufficiently small and the parameter that governs the driving voltage is √|K ave / Δε| is sufficiently low and strongly controls the contrast. ave It was also confirmed that LC-05 to LC-08 were all liquid crystal compositions with good low-temperature storage stability.

[0381] From the above, it was found that the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, when used in a liquid crystal display device, exhibits high speed response, high transmittance, low driving voltage, high contrast and low temperature storage stability.

Claims

1. The liquid crystal compound having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2 contains two or more liquid crystal compounds selected from the following general formula (N1): 【Chemical 1】 (In the formula, A Ｎ１１ and A Ｎ１２ are each independently (a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (one —CH ２ - or two or more non-adjacent -CH ２ - may be replaced by -O-; and (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH= or two or more non-adjacent —CH= groups may be replaced by —N=). (c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (one —CH= or two or more non-adjacent —CH= groups in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group may be replaced by —N=). (d) a group selected from the group consisting of 1,4-cyclohexenylene groups, wherein the groups (a), (b), (c), and (d) may each independently be substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom; Z Ｎ１１ and Z Ｎ１２ are each independently a single bond, —CH ２ CH ２ -, -(CH ２ ) ４ -, -OCH ２ -, -CH ２ O-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCF ２ -, -CF ２ represents -O-, -CH=N-N=CH-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-; n Ｎ１１ and n Ｎ１２ Each independently represents 0 or 1, Ｎ１１ +n Ｎ１２ is 1 or 2.) the total content of the liquid crystal compounds represented by general formula (N1) is 75 mass % or more of the total content of liquid crystal compounds having a dielectric anisotropy more negative than −2, which are used in the liquid crystal composition, Contains a liquid crystal compound represented by formula (L-10-1), 【Chemistry 2】 The liquid crystal compound selected from the general formula (N1) contains two or more liquid crystal compounds selected from the following general formulas (N1-I) to (N1-VI): 【Chemistry 3】 Further, the liquid crystal composition contains a liquid crystal compound represented by formula (L-10-2), 【Chemistry 4】 Furthermore, the composition contains one or more compounds represented by general formula (L), 【Chemistry 5】 (In the formula, R Ｌ１ and R Ｌ２ each independently represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one or two or more non-adjacent —CH ２ - may be independently replaced by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-; n Ｌ１ represents 0, 1, 2 or 3; A Ｌ１ , A Ｌ２ and A Ｌ３ are each independently (a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (one —CH ２ - or two or more non-adjacent -CH ２ - may be replaced by -O-; and (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH= or two or more non-adjacent —CH= groups may be replaced by —N=). (c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (one —CH= or two or more non-adjacent —CH= groups in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group may be replaced by —N=). wherein the groups (a), (b) and (c) may each independently be substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; Z Ｌ１ and Z Ｌ２ are each independently a single bond, —CH ２ CH ２ -, -(CH ２ ) ４ -, -OCH ２ -, -CH ２ O-, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCF ２ -, -CF ２ represents -O-, -CH=N-N=CH-, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF- or -C≡C-; n Ｌ１ is 2 or 3 and A Ｌ２ When there are a plurality of n Ｌ１ is 2 or 3 and Z Ｌ２ When a plurality of are present, they may be the same or different, excluding compounds represented by formula (L-10-1) and formula (L-10-2). A liquid crystal composition, wherein the contents of the liquid crystal compounds represented by general formulas (N1-I) to (N1-VI) are, based on the weight of the liquid crystal composition, 12 to 20% by weight of the liquid crystal compound represented by general formula (N1-I), 10 to 22% by weight of the liquid crystal compound represented by general formula (N1-II), 8 to 18% by weight of the liquid crystal compound represented by general formula (N1-III), 8 to 20% by weight of the liquid crystal compound represented by general formula (N1-IV), 7 to 15% by weight of the liquid crystal compound represented by general formula (N1-V), and 3 to 15% by weight of the liquid crystal compound represented by general formula (N1-VI).

2. 2. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 1, further comprising one or more additives selected from the group consisting of antioxidants, light stabilizers, ultraviolet absorbers, and infrared absorbers.

3. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 1 , further comprising a polymerizable compound represented by general formula (P): 【Chemistry 6】 (In the above general 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 wherein the alkyl group contains one or two or more non-adjacent —CH ２ - is optionally substituted by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-, and one or more hydrogen atoms in the alkyl group are optionally substituted by a cyano group, a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom, P ｐ１ and P ｐ２ are each independently represented by the general formula (P ｐ１ -1) ~Formula (P ｐ１ -9) 【Chemistry 7】 (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; W ｐ１１ represents a single bond, —O—, —COO— or a methylene group; t ｐ１１ represents 0, 1 or 2, but R ｐ１１ , R ｐ１２ , W ｐ１１ and / or t ｐ１１ When there are multiple, they may be the same or different.) represents one of the following: Sp ｐ１ and Sp ｐ２ each independently represents a single bond or a spacer group, Z ｐ１ and Z ｐ２ are each independently a single bond, —O—, —S—, or —CH ２ -, -OCH ２ -, -CH ２ O-, -CO-, -C ２ H ４ -, -COO-, -OCO-, -OCOOCH ２ -, -CH ２ OCOO-,-OCH ２ CH ２ O-, -CO-NR ＺＰ１ -, -NR ＺＰ１ -CO-, -SCH ２ -, -CH ２ S-, -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-, -(CH ２ ) ｚ -COO-, -(CH ２ ) ２ -OCO-, -OCO-(CH ２ ) ２ -, -(C=O)-O-(CH ２ ) ２ -, -CH=CH-, -CF=CF-, -CF=CH-, -CH=CF-, -CF ２ -, -CF ２ O-, -OCF ２ -, -CF ２ CH ２ -, -CH ２ CF ２ -, -CF ２ CF ２ - or -C≡C- (wherein R ＺＰ１ each independently represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, but if R ＺＰ１ When there are multiple, they may be the same or different.) represents A ｐ１ , A ｐ２ and A ｐ３ are each independently (a ｐ ) 1,4-cyclohexylene group (one —CH ２ - or two or more non-adjacent -CH ２ - may be replaced with -O-.) (b ｐ a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH= or two or more non-adjacent —CH= groups may be replaced by —N=); and (c ｐ a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a naphthalene-1,4-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a phenanthrene-2,7-diyl group, or an anthracene-2,6-diyl group (one -CH= or two or more non-adjacent -CH= groups in these groups may be replaced by -N=). represents a group selected from the group consisting of the above group (a ｐ ), group (b ｐ ) and group (c ｐ ) each independently represents a halogen atom, a cyano group, an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, or -Sp ｐ２ -P ｐ２ and one or two or more non-adjacent —CH ２ - may be independently replaced by -CH=CH-, -C≡C-, -O-, -CO-, -COO- or -OCO-; m ｐ１ represents 0, 1, 2 or 3, and Z ｐ１ , A ｐ２ , Sp ｐ２ and / or P ｐ２ When there are a plurality of A, they may be the same or different. ｐ３ is m ｐ１ is 0, A ｐ１ represents a single bond when it is a phenanthrene-2,7-diyl group or an anthracene-2,6-diyl group.

4. A liquid crystal display device using the liquid crystal composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A liquid crystal display device using the liquid crystal composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3 in an FFS mode or IP mode S-mode LCD display element.

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