The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Liquid crystalline networks (LCNs) are promising functional materials due to their molecular alignment and tunable mechanical and thermal properties. However, conventional fabrication methods offer limited control over molecular orientation, crosslinking density, and scalability. Here, we report a simple, solvent-free, one-step approach for fabricating LCNs using biphenyl-based liquid crystalline (LC) epoxy monomers. Heat-compression molding enables efficient bulk network formation without requiring high-purity monomers or complex purification. The LCNs are synthesized by combining a mono- and difunctional epoxy monomer. By systematically tuning the monomer ratio, the network structure is precisely controlled, enabling preservation of bulk molecular orientation that enhances thermal conductivity while retaining mechanical properties. This strategy provides an effective route for designing LC epoxy networks for advanced functional applications.