LIQUID CRYSTAL COMPOSITION AND LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY DEVICE USING THE SAME

Abstract

There is provided a liquid crystal composition containing at least one compound represented by General Formula (a). There is also provided a liquid crystal display device using such a liquid crystal composition. The liquid crystal composition of the present invention has the following properties without suffering reductions in refractive index anisotropy (Δn) and nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (T.sub.ni): sufficiently low viscosity (η), sufficiently low rotational viscosity (γ.sub.1), a large elastic constant (K.sub.33), a high voltage holding ratio after UV exposure (VHR (UV)), and a negative dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈) with a large absolute value. A liquid crystal display device of, for example, a VA type that uses such a liquid crystal composition has a high response speed and excellent display quality with defective display being eliminated or reduced.

##STR00001##

Claims

1-11. (canceled)

12. A liquid crystal composition comprising at least one compound represented by General Formula (a) ##STR00110## (where R.sup.a1 and R.sup.a2 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms; in the alkyl group or alkenyl group, one —CH.sub.2— or at least two —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each independently optionally substituted with —O— or —S—, and one or more hydrogen atoms are each independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; M.sup.a1 and M.sup.a2 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of (b) a 1,4-phenylene group and (c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group; the groups (b) and (c) are each independently optionally substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom; and Z.sup.a1 represents —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, and Z.sup.a2 represents a single bond or —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—) and at least one compound represented by General Formula (L-1) ##STR00111## (where R.sup.L11 and R.sup.L12 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; in the alkyl group, one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each independently optionally substituted with —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—).

13. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 12, further comprising at least one of compounds represented by General Formulae (LC3), (LC4), and (LC5) ##STR00112## (where R.sup.LC31, R.sup.LC32, R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, R.sup.LC51, and R.sup.LC52 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; at least one —CH.sub.2— in the alkyl group is optionally substituted with —O—, —S—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO—, —COO—, —C≡C—, —CF.sub.2O—, or —OCF.sub.2— such that oxygen atoms are not directly bonded to each other one or more hydrogen atoms in the alkyl group are each independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; A.sup.LC31, A.sup.LC32, A.sup.LC41, A.sup.LC42, A.sup.LC51, and A.sup.LC52 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of (a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —O—), (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═), and (c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═); the groups (a) to (c) are each independently optionally substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom; Z.sup.LC31, Z.sup.LC32, Z.sup.LC41, Z.sup.LC42, Z.sup.LC51, and Z.sup.LC52 each independently represent a single bond —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.4—, —COO—, —OCO—, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —OCF.sub.2—, or —CF.sub.2O—; Z.sup.5 represents —CH.sub.2— or an oxygen atom; X.sup.LC41 represents a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; m.sup.LC31, m.sup.LC32, m.sup.LC41, m.sup.LC42, m.sup.LC51, and m.sup.LC52 each independently represent an integer from 0 to 3; m.sup.LC31+m.sup.LC32, m.sup.LC41+m.sup.LC42, and m.sup.LC51+m.sup.LC52 are each 1, 2, or 3; in the case where A.sup.LC31 and Z.sup.LC31 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC32 and Z.sup.LC32 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC41 and Z.sup.LC41 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC42 and Z.sup.LC42 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC51 and Z.sup.LC51 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC52 and Z.sup.LC52 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; the compounds represented by General Formulae (LC3) to (LC5) exclude the compound represented by General Formula (a); the compounds represented by General Formulae (LC4) and (LC5) exclude the compound represented by General Formula (LC3); and the compound represented by General Formula (LC5) excludes the compound represented by General Formula (LC4)).

14. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 13, wherein at least one compound represented by General Formula (i) is used as the compound represented by General Formula (LC3) ##STR00113## (where R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms; in each of these groups, at least one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each independently optionally substituted with —O— or —S—, and one or more hydrogen atoms are each independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; A.sup.i1 and A.sup.i2 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of (a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —O—), (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═), and (c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═); the groups (a) to (c) are each independently optionally substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom; Z.sup.i1 and Z.sup.i2 each independently represent a single bond, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —OCF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2O—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, or —CF.sub.2CF.sub.2—; at least one Z.sup.i1 represents —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —OCF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2O—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, or —CF.sub.2CF.sub.2—; m.sup.i1 is an integer from 1 to 3; m.sup.i2 is an integer from 0 to 3; m.sup.i1+m.sup.i2 is 1, 2, or 3; in the case where A.sup.i1 and Z.sup.i1 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; and in the case where A.sup.i2 and Z.sup.i2 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other).

15. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 13, wherein at least one compound represented by General Formula (ii) is used as the compound represented by General Formula (LC3) ##STR00114## (where R.sup.ii1 and R.sup.ii2 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms; in each of these groups, at least one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each independently optionally substituted with —O— or —S—, and one or more hydrogen atoms are each independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; A.sup.ii1 and A.sup.ii2 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of (a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —O—), (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═), and (c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═); the groups (a) to (c) are each independently optionally substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom; m.sup.ii1 is an integer from 1 to 3; m.sup.ii2 is an integer from 0 to 3; m.sup.ii1+m.sup.ii2 is 1, 2, or 3; and in the case where A.sup.ii1 and A.sup.ii2 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other).

16. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 12, further comprising at least one compound represented by General Formula (L) ##STR00115## (where R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; in the alkyl group, one —CH.sub.2— or at least two —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each independently optionally substituted with —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—; n.sup.L1 represents 0, 1, 2, or 3; A.sup.L1, A.sup.L2, and A.sup.L3 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of (a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one —CH.sub.2— or at least two —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —O—), (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH═ or at least two —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═), and (c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, one —CH═ or at least two —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═); the groups (a) to (c) are each independently optionally substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom: Z.sup.L1 and Z.sup.L2 each independently represent a single bond, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.4—, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —COO—, —OCO—, —OCF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2O—, —CH═N—N═CH—, —CH═CH—, —CF═CF—, or —C≡C—; in the case where A.sup.L2 and Z.sup.L3 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; the compound represented by General Formula (L) excludes the compounds represented by General Formulae (a), (L-1), (LC3), (LC4), and (LC5)).

17. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 12, wherein the compound represented by General Formula (L-1) is at least one compound represented by General Formula (L-1) in which R.sup.L11 and R.sup.L12 each independently represent a linear alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 9 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms.

18. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 12, wherein at least one compound represented by General Formula (a) in which M.sup.a2 is an unsubstituted 1,4-phenylene group or an unsubstituted naphthalene-2,6-diyl group is used.

19. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 12, wherein the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (a) in the liquid crystal composition is in the range of 0.5 mass % to 35 mass %.

20. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 14, wherein the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (i) in the liquid crystal composition is in the range of 1 mass % to 25 mass %.

21. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 12, further comprising at least one polymerizable compound.

22. A liquid crystal display device comprising the liquid crystal composition according to claim 12.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0014] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention contains at least one compound represented by General Formula (a).

##STR00003##

[0015] The compound represented by General Formula (a) is preferably a compound having a negative Δ∈ with an absolute value greater than three.

[0016] In General Formula (a), R.sup.a1 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms; also preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; further preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 3 to 5 carbon atoms; and especially preferably an alkyl group having 1 carbon atom (methyl group), an alkyl group having 2 carbon atoms (ethyl group), an alkyl group having 3 carbon atoms (propyl group), an alkenyl group having 4 carbon atoms (butenyl group), or an alkenyl group having 5 carbon atoms (pentenyl group). R.sup.a1 is preferably linear. R.sup.a2 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms; also preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; and more preferably an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. R.sup.a2 is preferably linear.

[0017] The alkenyl group is preferably any group selected from groups represented by Formulae (R1) to (R9), and especially preferably the group represented by Formula (R8) or (R9) (the black point in each of the formulae represents the carbon atom of the ring structure to which R.sup.a1 or R.sup.a2 links).

##STR00004##

[0018] The alkenyloxy group is preferably any group selected from groups represented by Formulae (OR1) to (OR9), and especially preferably the group represented by Formula (OR8) or (OR9) (the black point in each of the formulae represents the carbon atom of the ring structure to which R.sup.a1 or R.sup.a2 links).

##STR00005##

[0019] Z.sup.a1 and Z.sup.a2 each independently represent a single bond or —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—; however, at least any one of Z.sup.a1 and Z.sup.a2 is not a single bond. It is preferred that any one of Z.sup.a1 and Z.sup.a2 represent —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2— and that the other one represent a single bond, and it is also preferred that Z.sup.a1 represent —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2— and that Z.sup.a2 represent a single bond.

[0020] M.sup.a1 and M.sup.a2 each independently represent a 1,4-phenylene group or a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group; in the case where these groups are each independently subjected to replacement of one hydrogen atom with a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom, such groups preferably have the following structures.

##STR00006##

[0021] M.sup.a1 and M.sup.a2 preferably each independently represent an unsubstituted 1,4-phenylene group or an unsubstituted naphthalene-2,6-diyl group; it is preferred that M.sup.a2 represent an unsubstituted 1,4-phenylene group or an unsubstituted naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, and it is more preferred that each of M.sup.a1 and M.sup.a2 represent an unsubstituted 1,4-phenylene group or an unsubstituted naphthalene-2,6-diyl group.

[0022] In General Formula (a), it is preferred that at least any one of M.sup.a1 and M.sup.a2 represent a 1,4-phenylene group, and it is more preferred that each of M.sup.a1 and M.sup.a2 represent a 1,4-phenylene group. The compound is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formula (a1).

##STR00007##

[0023] (in the formula, X.sup.a1 to X.sup.a4 each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; at least any one of X.sup.a1 and X.sup.a2 represents a hydrogen atom; at least any one of X.sup.a3 and X.sup.a4 represents a hydrogen atom; and R.sup.a1, R.sup.a2, Z.sup.a1, and Z.sup.a2 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.a1, R.sup.a2, Z.sup.a1, and Z.sup.a2 in General Formula (a), respectively)

[0024] It is preferred that each of X.sup.a3 and X.sup.a4 be a hydrogen atom, and it is more preferred that each of X.sup.a1 to X.sup.a4 be a hydrogen atom.

[0025] The compound represented by General Formula (a1) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formula (a11).

##STR00008##

[0026] (in the formula, R.sup.a3 represents an alkyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms; X.sup.a1 to X.sup.a4 each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; at least any one of X.sup.a1 and X.sup.a2 represents a hydrogen atom; at least any one of X.sup.a3 and X.sup.a4 represents a hydrogen atom; and R.sup.a1, Z.sup.a1, and Z.sup.a2 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.a1, Z.sup.a1, and Z.sup.a2 in General Formula (a), respectively)

At least one of such compounds is preferably used.

[0027] In particular, at least one of compounds represented by General Formulae (a-1) to (a-8) is preferably used as the compound represented by General Formula (a).

##STR00009##

[0028] (in each of the formulae, R.sup.a1 and R.sup.a2 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.a1 and R.sup.a2 in General Formula (a), respectively)

[0029] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention contains at least one compound represented by General Formula (a), and preferably two to ten compounds.

[0030] The lower limit of the total amount of the compounds represented by General Formula (a) in the composition is preferably not less than 0.1 mass % (the term “%” used in the description of the composition hereinafter refers to mass %), also preferably not less than 0.5%, also preferably not less than 1%, also preferably not less than 3%, also preferably not less than 5%, also preferably not less than 10%, also preferably not less than 13%, also preferably not less than 15%, also preferably not less than 18%, also preferably not less than 20%, also preferably not less than 23%, also preferably not less than 25%, also preferably not less than 28%, also preferably not less than 30%, also preferably not less than 33%, also preferably not less than 35%, also preferably not less than 38%, and also preferably not less than 40%. The upper limit thereof is preferably not more than 70%, also preferably not more than 68%, also preferably not more than 65%, also preferably not more than 63%, also preferably not more than 60%, also preferably not more than 55%, also preferably not more than 50%, also preferably not more than 40%, also preferably not more than 38%, also preferably not more than 35%, also preferably not more than 33%, also preferably not more than 30%, also preferably not more than 28%, also preferably not more than 25%, also preferably not more than 23%, also preferably not more than 20%, also preferably not more than 18%, also preferably not more than 15%, and also preferably not more than 10%.

[0031] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably further contains at least one compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formulae (LC3) to (LC5).

##STR00010##

[0032] (in the formulae, R.sup.LC31, R.sup.LC32, R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, R.sup.LC51, and R.sup.LC52 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; at least one —CH.sub.2— in the alkyl group is optionally substituted with —O—, —S—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO—, —COO—, —C≡C—, —CF.sub.2O—, or —OCF.sub.2— such that oxygen atoms are not directly bonded to each other; one or more hydrogen atoms in the alkyl group are each independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; A.sup.LC31, A.sup.LC32, A.sup.LC41, A.sup.LC42, A.sup.LC51, and A.sup.LC52 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of

(a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —O—),
(b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═), and
(c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═);
the groups (a) to (c) are each independently optionally substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom; Z.sup.LC31, Z.sup.LC32, Z.sup.LC41, Z.sup.LC42, Z.sup.LC51, and Z.sup.LC52 each independently represent a single bond —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.4—, —COO—, —OCO—, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —OCF.sub.2—, or —CF.sub.2O—; Z.sup.5 represents —CH.sub.2— or an oxygen atom; X.sup.LC41 represents a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; m.sup.LC31, m.sup.LC32, m.sup.LC41, m.sup.LC42, m.sup.LC51, and m.sup.LC52 each independently represent an integer from 0 to 3; m.sup.LC31+m.sup.LC32, m.sup.LC41+m.sup.LC42, and m.sup.LC51+m.sup.LC52 are each 1, 2, or 3; in the case where A.sup.LC31 and Z.sup.LC31 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC32 and Z.sup.LC32 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC41 and Z.sup.LC41 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC42 and Z.sup.LC42 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC51 and Z.sup.LC51 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where A.sup.LC52 and Z.sup.LC52 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; the compounds represented by General Formulae (LC3) to (LC5) exclude the compound represented by General Formula (a); the compounds represented by General Formulae (LC4) and (LC5) exclude the compound represented by General Formulae (LC3); and the compound represented by General Formula (LC5) excludes the compound represented by General Formula (LC4))

[0033] The compounds represented by General Formulae (LC3), (LC4), and (LC5) are preferably compounds each having a negative Δ∈ with an absolute value greater than three.

[0034] R.sup.LC31, R.sup.LC32, R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, R.sup.LC51, and R.sup.LC52 in General Formulae (LC3), (LC4), and (LC5) are preferably each independently an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms; also preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; further preferably an alkyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 or 3 carbon atoms; and especially preferably an alkenyl group having 3 carbon atoms (propenyl group).

[0035] In the case where the ring structures bonded to R.sup.LC31, R.sup.LC32, R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, R.sup.LC51, and R.sup.LC52 are phenyl groups (aromatics), R.sup.LC31, R.sup.LC32, R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, R.sup.LC51, and R.sup.LC52 are each 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 or 5 carbon atoms; in the case where the ring structures bonded to them are saturated rings such as cyclohexane, pyran, and dioxane, they are each 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 produce a stable nematic phase, the total number of carbon atoms or, if any, oxygen atoms is preferably five or less, and R.sup.LC31, R.sup.LC32, R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, R.sup.LC51, and R.sup.LC52 are preferably linear.

[0036] The alkenyl group is preferably any group selected from groups represented by Formulae (R1) to (R9) (the black point in each of the formulae represents a carbon atom of the ring structure).

##STR00011##

[0037] A.sup.LC31, A.sup.LC32, A.sup.LC41, A.sup.LC42, A.sup.LC51, and A.sup.LC52 are preferably each independently aromatic for large Δn or aliphatic for an improvement in the response speed. They are preferably each independently 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; more preferably any of the following structures; and

##STR00012##

[0038] further preferably a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group.

[0039] Z.sup.LC31, Z.sup.LC32, Z.sup.LC41, Z.sup.LC42, Z.sup.LC51, and Z.sup.LC52 preferably each independently represent —CH.sub.2O—, —CF.sub.2O—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2CF.sub.2—, or a single bond; more preferably —CH.sub.2O—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, or a single bond; and especially preferably —CH.sub.2O— or a single bond.

[0040] X.sup.LC41 is preferably a fluorine atom.

[0041] Z.sup.5 is preferably an oxygen atom.

[0042] m.sup.LC31+m.sup.LC32, m.sup.LC41+m.sup.LC42, and m.sup.LC51+m.sup.LC52 are each preferably 1 or 2; and preferred combinations are as follows: m.sup.LC31 of 1 and m.sup.LC32 of 0, m.sup.LC31 of 2 and m.sup.LC32 of 0, m.sup.LC31 of 1 and m.sup.LC32 of 1, m.sup.LC31 of 2 and m.sup.LC32 of 1, n.sup.N21 of 1 and n.sup.N22 of 0, n.sup.N21 of 2 and n.sup.N22 of 0, m.sup.LC41 of 1 and m.sup.LC42 of 0, and m.sup.LC51 of 2 and m.sup.LC52 of 0.

[0043] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (LC3) is 1%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, or 80% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 95%, 85%, 75%, 65%, 55%, 45%, 35%, 25%, or 20%.

[0044] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (LC4) is 1%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, or 80% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 95%, 85%, 75%, 65%, 55%, 45%, 35%, 25%, or 20%.

[0045] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (LC5) is 1%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, or 80% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 95%, 85%, 75%, 65%, 55%, 45%, 35%, 25%, or 20%.

[0046] In the case where the composition of the present invention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute to a high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upper limit be low. In the case where the composition of the present invention needs to have a Tni kept at a high level to have a high temperature stability, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upper limit be low. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy for keeping driving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be high and that the upper limit be high.

[0047] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains at least one compound represented by General Formula (i) as the compound represented by General Formula (LC3).

##STR00013##

[0048] (in the formula, R.sup.i1 and R.sup.i4 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms; in each of these groups, at least one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each independently optionally substituted with —O— or —S—, and one or more hydrogen atoms are each independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; A.sup.i1 and A.sup.i2 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of

[0049] The compound represented by General Formula (i) is preferably a compound having a negative dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈) with an absolute value greater than three.

[0050] R.sup.i1 in General Formula (i) is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms; also preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; further preferably an alkyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 or 3 carbon atoms; and especially preferably an alkenyl group having 3 carbon atoms (propenyl group).

[0051] R.sup.i2 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms; also preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; and further preferably an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. In terms of an improvement in the response speed of a display device, an alkenyl group is preferred; in terms of reliability such as a voltage holding ratio, an alkyl group is preferred. In the case where at least any one of R.sup.i1 and R.sup.i2 is an alkenyl group, the alkenyl group is preferably any group selected from groups represented by Formulae (R1) to (R9) (the black point in each of the formulae represents the linkage to the ring).

##STR00014##

[0052] A.sup.i1 and A.sup.i2 in General Formula (i) are preferably each independently 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; more preferably any of the following structures; and

##STR00015##

[0053] further preferably a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group.

[0054] Z.sup.i1 and Z.sup.i2 preferably each independently represent —CH.sub.2O—, —CF.sub.2O—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2CF.sub.2—, or a single bond; more preferably —CH.sub.2O—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, or a single bond; and especially preferably —CH.sub.2O— or a single bond. At least one Z.sup.i1 represents —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —OCF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2O—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, or —CF.sub.2CF.sub.2—; preferably —CH.sub.2O—, —CF.sub.2O—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, or —CF.sub.2CF.sub.2; more preferably —CH.sub.2O— or —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—; and especially preferably —CH.sub.2O—.

[0055] m.sup.i1 represents an integer from 1 to 3; m.sup.i2 each independently represents an integer from 0 to 3; m.sup.i1+m.sup.i2 is 1, 2, or 3; and m.sup.i1+m.sup.i2 is preferably 1 or 2.

[0056] At least one compound represented by General Formula (i-1) is preferably used as the compound represented by General Formula (i).

##STR00016##

[0057] (in the formula, A.sup.i11, A.sup.i12, and A.sup.i13 each independently represent a 1,4-cyclohexylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group; in the 1,4-cyclohexylene group, one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —O— or —S—; in the 1,4-phenylene group, one hydrogen atom is independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; m.sup.i11 and m.sup.i12 each independently represent 0 or 1; R.sup.i1, R.sup.i2, Z.sup.i1, and Z.sup.i2 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.i1, R.sup.i2, Z.sup.i1, and Z.sup.i2 in General Formula (i), respectively)

[0058] The compound represented by General Formula (i-1) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1A), (i-1B), and (i-1C).

##STR00017##

[0059] (in the formula, R.sup.i1, R.sup.i2, A.sup.i11, and Z.sup.i1 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.i1, R.sup.i2, A.sup.i11, and Z.sup.i1 in General Formula (i-1), respectively)

##STR00018##

[0060] (in the formula, R.sup.i1, R.sup.i2, A.sup.i11, A.sup.i12, and Z.sup.i1 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.i1, R.sup.i2, A.sup.i11, A.sup.i12, and Z.sup.i1 in General Formula (i-1), respectively)

##STR00019##

[0061] (in the formula, m.sup.i13 represents 1; and R.sup.i1, R.sup.i2, A.sup.i11, A.sup.i12, A.sup.i13, Z.sup.i1, Z.sup.i2, and m.sup.i11 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.i1, R.sup.i2, A.sup.i11, A.sup.i12, A.sup.i13, Z.sup.i1, Z.sup.i2, and m.sup.i11 in General Formula (i-1), respectively)

[0062] The compound represented by General Formula (i-1A) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1A-1) to (i-1A-4).

##STR00020##

[0063] (in each of the formulae, R.sup.i1 and R.sup.i2 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.i1 and R.sup.i2 in General Formula (i-1), respectively)

[0064] The compound represented by General Formula (i-1B) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1B-1) to (i-1B-6).

##STR00021##

[0065] (in each of the formulae, R.sup.i1 and R.sup.i2 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.i1 and R.sup.i2 in General Formula (i-1), respectively)

[0066] The compound represented by General Formula (i-1C) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1C-1) to (i-1C-4), and more preferably any of the compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1C-1) and (i-1C-2).

##STR00022##

[0067] (in each of the formulae, R.sup.i1 and R.sup.i2 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.i1 and R.sup.i2 in General Formula (i-1), respectively)

[0068] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains at least one compound represented by General Formula (i); the liquid crystal composition may contain at least one compound selected from the group consisting of the compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1A), (i-1B), and (i-1C). Alternatively, at least one compound may be selected from each of the compounds represented by General Formula (i-1A), the compounds represented by General Formula (i-1B), and the compounds represented by General Formula (i-1C); and the liquid crystal composition may contain the selected ones. At least one compound selected from the compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1A) and (i-1B) is preferably used, and two to ten compounds selected therefrom are more preferably used.

[0069] In particular, at least one compound is preferably selected from the group consisting of the compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1A-1), (i-1B-1), and (i-1C-1) as the compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1A), (i-1B), and (i-1C), respectively; and a combination of the compounds represented by General Formulae (i-1A-1) and (i-1B-1) is more preferably employed.

[0070] The lower limit of the total amount of the compounds represented by General Formula (i) in the composition is preferably not less than 0.1 mass % (the term “%” used in the description of the composition hereinafter refers to mass %), also preferably not less than 0.5%, also preferably not less than 1%, also preferably not less than 3%, also preferably not less than 5%, also preferably not less than 10%, also preferably not less than 13%, also preferably not less than 15%, also preferably not less than 18%, also preferably not less than 20%, also preferably not less than 23%, also preferably not less than 25%, also preferably not less than 28%, also preferably not less than 30%, also preferably not less than 33%, also preferably not less than 35%, also preferably not less than 38%, and also preferably not less than 40%. The upper limit thereof is preferably not more than 95%, also preferably not more than 90%, also preferably not more than 88%, also preferably not more than 85%, also preferably not more than 83%, also preferably not more than 80%, also preferably not more than 78%, also preferably not more than 75%, also preferably not more than 73%, also preferably not more than 70%, also preferably not more than 68%, also preferably not more than 65%, also preferably not more than 63%, also preferably not more than 60%, also preferably not more than 55%, also preferably not more than 50%, also preferably not more than 40%, also preferably not more than 38%, also preferably not more than 35%, also preferably not more than 33%, also preferably not more than 30%, also preferably not more than 28%, also preferably not more than 25%, also preferably not more than 23%, also preferably not more than 20%, also preferably not more than 18%, also preferably not more than 15%, and also preferably not more than 10%.

[0071] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains at least one compound represented by General Formula (ii) as the compound represented by General Formula (LC3).

##STR00023##

(in the formula, R.sup.ii1 and R.sup.ii2 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms; in each of these groups, at least one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each independently optionally substituted with —O— or —S—, and one or more hydrogen atoms are each independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom; A.sup.ii1 and A.sup.ii2 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of
(a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one —CH.sub.2— or two or more —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —O—),
(b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═), and
(c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, one —CH═ or two or more —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═);
the groups (a) to (c) are each independently optionally substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom; m.sup.ii1 is an integer from 1 to 3; m.sup.ii2 is an integer from 0 to 3; m.sup.ii1+m.sup.ii2 is 1, 2, or 3; and in the case where A.sup.ii1 and A.sup.ii2 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other)

[0072] m.sup.ii1 preferably represents 1 or 2, m.sup.i2 preferably represents 0 or 1, m.sup.i1+m.sup.i2 is preferably 1 or 2.

[0073] At least one compound represented by General Formula (II-2) is preferably used as the compound represented by General Formula (ii).

##STR00024##

[0074] (in the formula, R.sup.ii1, R.sup.ii2, A.sup.ii1, m.sup.ii1 have the same meanings as R.sup.ii1, R.sup.ii2, A.sup.ii1, m.sup.ii1 in General Formula (ii), respectively)

[0075] The compound represented by General Formula (II-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formula (II-2A) or (II-2B).

##STR00025##

[0076] (in the formula, R.sup.ii1, R.sup.ii2, and A.sup.ii1 have the same meanings as R.sup.ii1, R.sup.ii2, A.sup.ii1, and m.sup.ii1 in General Formula (ii))

##STR00026##

[0077] (in the formula, A.sup.ii11 and A.sup.ii11 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of

[0078] The compound represented by General Formula (II-2A) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (II-2A-1) and (II-2A-2).

##STR00027##

[0079] (in each of the formulae, R.sup.ii1 and R.sup.ii2 have the same meanings as R.sup.ii1 and R.sup.ii2 in General Formula (II-2), respectively)

[0080] The compound represented by General Formula (II-2B) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (II-2B-1) to (II-2B-3).

##STR00028##

[0081] (in each of the formulae, R.sup.ii1 and R.sup.ii2 have the same meanings as R.sup.ii1 and R.sup.ii2 in General Formula (II-2), respectively)

[0082] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains at least one compound represented by General Formula (ii); the liquid crystal composition may contain at least one compound selected from the group consisting of the compounds represented by General Formulae (II-2A) and (II-2B). Alternatively, at least one compound may be selected from each of the compounds represented by General Formula (II-2A) and the compounds represented by General Formula (II-2B), and the liquid crystal composition may contain the selected ones. Two to ten compounds selected from the compounds represented by General Formulae (II-2A) and (II-2B) are preferably used.

[0083] In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (II-2A) is preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting of the compounds represented by General Formula (II-2A-1), the compound represented by General Formula (II-2B) is preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting of the compounds represented by General Formulae (II-2B-1) and (II-2B-2), and a combination of the compounds represented by General Formulae (II-2A-1) and (II-2B-1) is more preferably employed.

[0084] At least one compound represented by General Formula (LC3-b) is preferably used as the compound represented by General Formula (LC3).

##STR00029##

[0085] (in the formula, R.sup.LC31, R.sup.LC32, A.sup.LC31, A.sup.LC32, and Z.sup.LC31 have the same meanings as R.sup.LC31, R.sup.LC32, A.sup.LC31, A.sup.LC32, and Z.sup.LC31 in General Formula (LC3), respectively; X.sup.LC3b1 to X.sup.LC3b4 each represent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; at least either of a combination of X.sup.LC3b1 and X.sup.LC3b2 and a combination of X.sup.LC3b3 and X.sup.LC3b4 are fluorine atoms; m.sup.LC3b1 is 0 or 1; and the compound represented by General Formula (LC3-b) excludes the compounds represented by General Formulae (i) and (ii))

[0086] The compound represented by General Formula (LC3-b) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (LC3-b1) to (LC3-b10).

##STR00030##

[0087] (in each of the formulae, R.sup.LC33 and R.sup.LC34 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkoxyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms)

[0088] R.sup.LC33 and R.sup.LC34 can be any combination. Preferred combinations are as follows: both of them are alkyl groups or alkenyl groups; either of them is an alkyl group, and the other one thereof is an alkenyl group; either of them is an alkyl group, and the other one thereof is an alkoxy group; and either of them is an alkyl group, and the other one thereof is an alkenyloxy group. It is more preferred that both of R.sup.LC33 and R.sup.LC34 be alkyl groups or that both of R.sup.LC33 and R.sup.LC34 be alkenyl groups.

[0089] The compound represented by General Formula (LC3-b) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formula (LC3-c).

##STR00031##

[0090] (in the formula, R.sup.LC35 and R.sup.LC36 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkoxyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, or an alkenyloxy group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms)

[0091] The compound represented by General Formula (LC4) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (LC4-a) to (LC4-d).

##STR00032##

[0092] (in the formulae, R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, and X.sup.LC41 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, and X.sup.LC41 in General Formula (LC4), respectively; and Z.sup.LC4a1, Z.sup.LC4b1, Z.sup.LC4c1, and Z.sup.LC4c2 each independently represent a single bond, —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.4—, —COO—, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —OCF.sub.2—, or —CF.sub.2O—)

[0093] The compound represented by General Formula (LC4) is also preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (LC4-a1) to (LC4-d1).

##STR00033##

[0094] (in the formula, R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, and X.sup.LC41 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.LC41, R.sup.LC42, and X.sup.LC41 in General Formula (LC4), respectively)

[0095] The compound represented by General Formula (LC5) is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (LC5-a) to (LC5-c).

##STR00034##

[0096] (in the formulae, R.sup.LC51 and R.sup.LC52 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.LC51 and R.sup.LC52 in General Formula (LC5), respectively; and Z.sup.LC5a1, Z.sup.LC5b1, and Z.sup.LC5c1 each independently represent a single bond, —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.4—, —COO—, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —OCF.sub.2—, or —CF.sub.2O—)

[0097] The compound represented by General Formula (LC5) is also preferably any of compounds represented by General Formulae (LC5-a1) to (LC5-c3).

##STR00035##

[0098] (in the formulae, R.sup.LC51 and R.sup.LC52 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.LC51 and R.sup.LC52 in General Formula (LC5), respectively)

[0099] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably further contains at least one compound represented by General Formula (L). The compound represented by General Formula (L) is a substantially dielectrically neutral compound (Δ∈ from −2 to 2).

##STR00036##

[0100] (in the formula, R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms; in the alkyl group, one —CH.sub.2— or at least two —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each independently optionally substituted with —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—;

[0101] n.sup.L represents 0, 1, 2, or 3;

[0102] A.sup.L1, A.sup.L2, and A.sup.L3 each independently represent a group selected from the group consisting of

(a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (in which one —CH.sub.2— or at least two —CH.sub.2—'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —O—),
(b) a 1,4-phenylene group (in which one —CH═ or at least two —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═), and
(c) a naphthalene-2,6-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, or a decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group (in the naphthalene-2,6-diyl group or the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl group, one —CH═ or at least two —CH═'s not adjoining each other are each optionally substituted with —N═);
the groups (a) to (c) are each independently optionally substituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom;

[0103] Z.sup.L1 and Z.sup.L2 each independently represent a single bond, —CH.sub.2CH.sub.2—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.4—, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —COO—, —OCO—, —OCF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2O—, —CH═N—N═CH—, —CH═CH—, —CF═CF—, or —C≡C—;

[0104] in the case where A.sup.L2 and Z.sup.L3 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; the compound represented by General Formula (L) excludes the compounds represented by General Formulae (a), (LC3), (LC4), and (LC5))

[0105] The compounds represented by General Formula (L) may be used alone or in combination. Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination of the compounds is determined on the basis of predetermined properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the present invention, for example, one of such compounds is used. Furthermore, two of the compounds are used in another embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds are used in another embodiment, four of the compounds are used in another embodiment, five of the compounds are used in another embodiment, six of the compounds are used in another embodiment, seven of the compounds are used in another embodiment, eight of the compounds are used in another embodiment, nine of the compounds are used in another embodiment, and ten or more of the compounds are used in another embodiment.

[0106] In the composition of the present invention, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (L) needs to be appropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, image-sticking, and dielectric anisotropy.

[0107] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L) is 1%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, or 80% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 95%, 85%, 75%, 65%, 55%, 45%, 35%, or 25%.

[0108] In the case where the composition of the present invention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute to a high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be high and that the upper limit be high. In the case where the composition of the present invention needs to have a Tni kept at a high level to have a high temperature stability, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be high and that the upper limit be high. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy for keeping driving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upper limit be low.

[0109] In the case of focusing on the reliability, R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 are each preferably an alkyl group; in the case of focusing on a reduction in the volatility of the compound, they are each preferably an alkoxy group; and in the case of focusing on a reduction in the viscosity, at least one of them is preferably an alkenyl group.

[0110] In the case where the ring structures bonded to R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 are phenyl groups (aromatics), R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 are each 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 or 5 carbon atoms; in the case where the ring structures bonded to R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 are saturated rings such as cyclohexane, pyran, and dioxane, R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 are each 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 produce a stable nematic phase, the total number of carbon atoms or, if any, oxygen atoms is preferably five or less, and R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 are preferably linear.

[0111] The alkenyl group is preferably any group selected from groups represented by Formulae (R1) to (R9) (the black point in each of the formulae represents a carbon atom of the ring structure).

##STR00037##

[0112] In the case of focusing on the response speed, n.sup.L1 is preferably 0; in order to improve the upper limit of the temperature of the nematic phase, n.sup.L1 is preferably 2 or 3; and in order to take a balance therebetween, n.sup.L1 is preferably 1. In order to satisfy the properties necessary for the composition, compounds having a difference in n.sup.L1 are preferably used in combination.

[0113] A.sup.L1, A.sup.L2, and A.sup.L3 are preferably aromatic for large Δn or aliphatic for an improvement in the response speed. They are preferably each independently 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; more preferably any of the following structures; and

##STR00038##

[0114] further preferably a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group.

[0115] Z.sup.L1 and Z.sup.L2 are each preferably a single bond in the case of focusing on the response speed.

[0116] The number of halogen atoms per molecule is preferably zero or one. The compound represented by General Formula (L) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formulae (L-1) to (L-7).

[0117] The compound represented by General Formula (L-1) is as follows.

##STR00039##

[0118] (in the formula, R.sup.L11 and R.sup.L12 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 in General Formula (L), respectively)

[0119] R.sup.L11 and R.sup.L12 is each preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 9 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms; also preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 7 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms; and also 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.

[0120] Any one or both of R.sup.L11 and R.sup.L12 are preferably linear alkenyl groups each having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, and more preferably linear alkenyl groups each having 2 to 5 carbon atoms. It is preferred that any one of R.sup.L11 and R.sup.L12 be a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms and that the other one thereof be a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0121] It is preferred that both of R.sup.L11 and R.sup.L12 be linear alkyl groups each having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or linear alkoxy groups each having 1 to 7 carbon atoms, and it is more preferred that both of them be linear alkyl groups each having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or linear alkoxy groups each having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. It is also preferred that any one of R.sup.L11 and R.sup.L12 be an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms and that the other one thereof be an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and it is more preferred that both of R.sup.L11 and R.sup.L12 be linear alkyl groups each having 1 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0122] The compounds represented by General Formula (L-1) may be used alone or in combination. Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination of the compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence. For example, one of such compounds is used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used in another embodiment, three of the compounds are used in another embodiment, four of the compounds are used in another embodiment, and five or more of the compounds are used in another embodiment.

[0123] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, or 55% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 95%, 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, or 25% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0124] In the case where the composition of the present invention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute to a high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be high and that the upper limit be high. In the case where the composition of the present invention needs to have a Tni kept at a high level to have a high temperature stability, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be moderate and that the upper limit be moderate. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy for keeping driving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upper limit be low.

[0125] The compound represented by General Formula (L-1) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formula (L-1-1).

##STR00040##

[0126] (in the formula, R.sup.L12 has the same meaning as that in General Formula (L-1))

[0127] The compound represented by General Formula (L-1-1) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-1.1) to (L-1-1.3), also preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-1-1.2) or (L-1-1.3), and especially preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-1-1.3).

##STR00041##

[0128] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-1-1.3) is preferably 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, or 10% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 20%, 15%, 13%, 10%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, or 3% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0129] The compound represented by General Formula (L-1) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formula (L-1-2).

##STR00042##

[0130] (in the formula, R.sup.L12 has the same meaning as that in General Formula (L-1))

[0131] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-1-2) is preferably 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 17%, 20%, 23%, 25%, 27%, 30%, or 35% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 42%, 40%, 38%, 35%, 33%, or 30% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0132] The compound represented by General Formula (L-1-2) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-2.1) to (L-1-2.4), and also preferably any of the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-2.2) to (L-1-2.4). In particular, the compound represented by Formula (L-1-2.2) is preferred because it especially enhances the response speed of the composition of the present invention. In the case where high Tni is needed rather than the response speed, it is preferred that the compound represented by Formula (L-1-2.3) or (L-1-2.4) be employed. In order to improve solubility at low temperature, it is preferred that the amount of each of the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-2.3) and (L-1-2.4) be less than 30%.

##STR00043##

[0133] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-1-2.2) is 10%, 15%, 18%, 20%, 23%, 25%, 27%, 30%, 33%, 35%, 38%, or 40% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 43%, 40%, 38%, 35%, 32%, 30%, 27%, 25%, or 22% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0134] The composition of the present invention preferably contains the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-1.3) and (L-1-2.2). The lower limit of the preferred amount of a combination of the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-1.3) and (L-1-2.2) is 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 27%, 30%, 35%, or 40% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 43%, 40%, 38%, 35%, 32%, 30%, 27%, 25%, or 22% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0135] The compound represented by General Formula (L-1) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formula (L-1-3).

##STR00044##

[0136] (in the formula, R.sup.L13 and R.sup.L14 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms)

[0137] R.sup.L13 and R.sup.L14 are each preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

[0138] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-1-3) is 1%, 5%, 10%, 13%, 15%, 17%, 20%, 23%, 25%, or 30% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 37%, 35%, 33%, 30%, 27%, 25%, 23%, 20%, 17%, 15%, 13%, or 10% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0139] The compound represented by General Formula (L-1-3) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-3.1) to (L-1-3.12), and also preferably any of the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-3.1), (L-1-3.3), and (L-1-3.4). In particular, the compound represented by Formula (L-1-3.1) is preferred because it especially enhances the response speed of the composition of the present invention. In the case where high Tni is needed rather than the response speed, it is preferred that the compound represented by Formula (L-1-3.3), (L-1-3.4), (L-1-3.11), or (L-1-3.12) be employed. In order to improve solubility at low temperature, it is preferred that the total amount of the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-3.3), (L-1-3.4), (L-1-3.11), and (L-1-3.12) be less than 20%.

##STR00045##

[0140] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-1-3.1) is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 13%, 15%, 18%, or 20% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 20%, 17%, 15%, 13%, 10%, 8%, 7%, or 6% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0141] The compound represented by General Formula (L-1) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formula (L-1-4) and/or General Formula (L-1-5).

##STR00046##

[0142] (in the formulae, R.sup.L15 and R.sup.L16 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms)

[0143] R.sup.L15 and R.sup.L16 are each 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.

[0144] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-1-4) is 1%, 5%, 10%, 13%, 15%, 17%, or 20% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 25%, 23%, 20%, 17%, 15%, 13%, or 10% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0145] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-1-5) is 1%, 5%, 10%, 13%, 15%, 17%, or 20% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 25%, 23%, 20%, 17%, 15%, 13%, or 10% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0146] The compounds represented by General Formulae (L-1-4) and (L-1-5) are preferably compounds selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-4.1) to (L-1-5.3), and also preferably the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-4.2) and (L-1-5.2).

##STR00047##

[0147] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-1-4.2) is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 13%, 15%, 18%, or 20% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 20%, 17%, 15%, 13%, 10%, 8%, 7%, or 6% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0148] At least two compounds selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-1.3), (L-1-2.2), (L-1-3.1), (L-1-3.3), (L-1-3.4), (L-1-3.11), and (L-1-3.12) are preferably used in combination; and at least two compounds selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-1.3), (L-1-2.2), (L-1-3.1), (L-1-3.3), (L-1-3.4), and (L-1-4.2) are also preferably used in combination. The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compounds in each of such combinations is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 13%, 15%, 18%, 20%, 23%, 25%, 27%, 30%, 33%, or 35% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit thereof is 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 37%, 35%, 33%, 30%, 28%, 25%, 23%, or 20% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. In the case of focusing on the reliability of the composition, two or more compounds selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-3.1), (L-1-3.3), and (L-1-3.4) are preferably used in combination; in the case of focusing on the response speed of the composition, two or more compounds selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (L-1-1.3) and (L-1-2.2) are preferably used in combination.

[0149] The compound represented by General Formula (L-2) is as follows.

##STR00048##

[0150] (in the formula, R.sup.L21 and R.sup.L22 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 in General Formula (L), respectively)

[0151] R.sup.L21 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and R.sup.L22 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

[0152] The compounds represented by General Formula (L-1) may be used alone or in combination. Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination of the compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence. For example, one of such compounds is used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used in another embodiment, three of the compounds are used in another embodiment, four of the compounds are used in another embodiment, and five or more of the compounds are used in another embodiment.

[0153] In terms of solubility at low temperature, the amount is adjusted to be larger to produce a greater effect; in terms of response speed, the amount is adjusted to be smaller to produce a greater effect. In order to improve properties related to droplet stains and image-sticking, the range of the amount is preferably adjusted to be intermediate.

[0154] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-2) is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, or 10% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 20%, 15%, 13%, 10%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, or 3% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0155] The compound represented by General Formula (L-2) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by Formulae (L-2.1) to (L-2.6), and also preferably any of the compounds represented by Formulae (L-2.1), (L-2.3), (L-2.4), and (L-2.6).

##STR00049##

[0156] The compound represented by General Formula (L-3) is as follows.

##STR00050##

[0157] (in the formula, R.sup.L31 and R.sup.L32 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 in General Formula (L), respectively)

[0158] R.sup.L31 and R.sup.L32 are preferably each independently an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

[0159] The compounds represented by General Formula (L-3) may be used alone or in combination. Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination of the compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence. For example, one of such compounds is used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used in another embodiment, three of the compounds are used in another embodiment, four of the compounds are used in another embodiment, and five or more of the compounds are used in another embodiment.

[0160] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-3) is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, or 10% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 20%, 15%, 13%, 10%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, or 3% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0161] In terms of an enhancement in birefringence, the amount is adjusted to be larger to produce a greater effect; in terms of high Tni, the amount is adjusted to be smaller to produce a greater effect. In order to improve properties related to droplet stains and image-sticking, the range of the amount is preferably adjusted to be intermediate.

[0162] The compound represented by General Formula (L-3) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by Formulae (L-3.1) to (L-3.9), also preferably any of the compounds represented by Formulae (L-3.1) to (L-3.7), and also preferably any of the compounds represented by Formulae (L-3.1), (L-3.2), (L-3.6), and (L-3.7).

##STR00051##

[0163] The compound represented by General Formula (L-4) is as follows.

##STR00052##

[0164] (in the formula, R.sup.L41 and R.sup.L42 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 in General Formula (L), respectively)

[0165] R.sup.L41 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; and R.sup.L42 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.)

[0166] The compounds represented by General Formula (L-4) may be used alone or in combination. Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination of the compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence. For example, one of such compounds is used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used in another embodiment, three of the compounds are used in another embodiment, four of the compounds are used in another embodiment, and five or more of the compounds are used in another embodiment.

[0167] In the composition of the present invention, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (L-4) needs to be appropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, image-sticking, and dielectric anisotropy.

[0168] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-4) is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 14%, 16%, 20%, 23%, 26%, 30%, 35%, or 40% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-4) is 50%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0169] The compound represented by General Formula (L-4) is, for example, preferably any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-4.1) to (L-4.3).

##STR00053##

[0170] On the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence, the compound represented by Formula (L-4.1) may be used, the compound represented by Formula (L-4.2) may be used, both the compounds represented by Formulae (L-4.1) and (L-4.2) may be used, and a11 of the compounds represented by Formulae (L-4.1) to (L-4.3) may be used. The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-4.1) or (L-4.2) is 3%, 5%, 7%, 9%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 18%, or 21% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 45, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 23%, 20%, 18%, 15%, 13%, 10%, or 8% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0171] In the case where both the compound represented by Formula (L-4.1) and the compound represented by Formula (L-4.2) are used, the lower limit of the preferred amount thereof is 15%, 19%, 24%, or 30% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 45, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 23%, 20%, 18%, 15%, or 13% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0172] The compound represented by General Formula (L-4) is, for instance, preferably any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-4.4) to (L-4.6), and also preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-4.4).

##STR00054##

[0173] On the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence, the compound represented by Formula (L-4.4) may be used, the compound represented by Formula (L-4.5) may be used, and both the compounds represented by Formulae (L-4.4) and (L-4.5) may be used.

[0174] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-4.4) or (L-4.5) is 3%, 5%, 7%, 9%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 18%, or 21% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 45, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 23%, 20%, 18%, 15%, 13%, 10%, or 8% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0175] In the case where both the compound represented by Formula (L-4.4) and the compound represented by Formula (L-4.5) are used, the lower limit of the preferred amount thereof is 15%, 19%, 24%, or 30% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount is 45, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 23%, 20%, 18%, 15%, or 13% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0176] The compound represented by General Formula (L-4) is preferably any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-4.7) to (L-4.10), and especially preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-4.9).

##STR00055##

[0177] The compound represented by General Formula (L-5) is as follows.

##STR00056##

[0178] (in the formula, R.sup.L51 and R.sup.L52 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 in General Formula (L), respectively)

[0179] R.sup.L51 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; and R.sup.L52 is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

[0180] The compounds represented by General Formula (L-5) may be used alone or in combination. Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination of the compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence. For example, one of such compounds is used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used in another embodiment, three of the compounds are used in another embodiment, four of the compounds are used in another embodiment, and five or more of the compounds are used in another embodiment.

[0181] In the composition of the present invention, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (L-5) needs to be appropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, image-sticking, and dielectric anisotropy.

[0182] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-5) is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 14%, 16%, 20%, 23%, 26%, 30%, 35%, or 40% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount represented by Formula (L-5) is 50%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0183] The compound represented by General Formula (L-5) is preferably a compound represented by Formula (L-5.1) or (L-5.2), and especially preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-5.1).

[0184] The lower limit of the preferred amount of these compounds is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, or 7% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount thereof is 20%, 15%, 13%, 10%, or 9%.

##STR00057##

[0185] The compound represented by General Formula (L-5) is preferably a compound represented by Formula (L-5.3) or (L-5.4).

[0186] The lower limit of the preferred amount of these compounds is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, or 7% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount thereof is 20%, 15%, 13%, 10%, or 9%.

##STR00058##

[0187] The compound represented by General Formula (L-5) is preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by Formulae (L-5.5) to (L-5.7), and especially preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-5.7).

[0188] The lower limit of the preferred amount of these compounds is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, or 7% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount thereof is 20%, 15%, 13%, 10%, or 9%.

##STR00059##

[0189] The compound represented by General Formula (L-6) is as follows.

##STR00060##

[0190] (in the formula, R.sup.L61 and R.sup.L62 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 in General Formula (L), respectively; and X.sup.L61 and X.sup.L62 each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom)

[0191] R.sup.L61 and R.sup.L62 are preferably each independently an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and it is preferred that one of X.sup.L61 and X.sup.L62 be a fluorine atom and that the other one thereof be a hydrogen atom.

[0192] The compounds represented by General Formula (L-6) may be used alone or in combination. Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination of the compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence. For example, one of such compounds is used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used in another embodiment, three of the compounds are used in another embodiment, four of the compounds are used in another embodiment, and five or more of the compounds are used in another embodiment.

[0193] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-6) is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 14%, 16%, 20%, 23%, 26%, 30%, 35%, or 40% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-6) is 50%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. In the case of focusing on an enhancement in Δn, the amount is preferably larger; in the case of focusing on precipitation at low temperature, the amount is preferably smaller.

[0194] The compound represented by General Formula (L-6) is preferably any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-6.1) to (L-6.9).

##STR00061##

[0195] Such compounds can be used in any combination; one to three of the compounds are preferably used, and one to four of the compounds are more preferably used. Use of a compound having a broad molecular weight distribution is also effective in solubility; hence, a preferred example of use of these compounds is as follows: one compound is selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (L-6.1) and (L-6.2), one compound is selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (L-6.4) and (L-6.5), one compound is selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (L-6.6) and (L-6.7), one compound is selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (L-6.8) and (L-6.9), and a proper combination of the selected compounds is determined. In particular, it is preferred that the compound represented by Formula (L-6.1), the compound represented by Formula (L-6.3), the compound represented by Formula (L-6.4), the compound represented by Formula (L-6.6), and the compound represented by Formula (L-6.9) be used.

[0196] Furthermore, the compound represented by General Formula (L-6) is, for instance, preferably any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-6.10) to (L-6.17); in particular, the compound represented by Formula (L-6.11) is preferred.

##STR00062##

[0197] The lower limit of the preferred amount of these compounds is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, or 7% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount thereof is 20%, 15%, 13%, 10%, or 9%.

[0198] The compound represented by General Formula (L-7) is as follows.

##STR00063##

[0199] (in the formula, R.sup.L71 and R.sup.L72 independently have the same meanings as R.sup.L1 and R.sup.L2 in General Formula (L), respectively; A.sup.L71 and A.sup.L72 independently have the same meanings as A.sup.L2 and A.sup.L3 in General Formula (L), respectively; the hydrogen atoms of A.sup.L71 and A.sup.L72 are each independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom; Z.sup.L71 have the same meaning as Z.sup.L2 in General Formula (L); and X.sup.L71 and X.sup.L72 each independently represent a fluorine atom or a hydrogen atom)

[0200] In the formula, R.sup.L71 and R.sup.L72 are preferably each independently an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; A.sup.L71 and A.sup.L72 are preferably each independently a 1,4-cyclohexylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group; the hydrogen atoms of A.sup.L71 and A.sup.L72 are each independently optionally substituted with a fluorine atom; Q.sup.L71 is preferably a single bond or COO—, and preferably a single bond; and X.sup.L71 and X.sup.L72 are each preferably a hydrogen atom.

[0201] Such compounds can be used in any combination; a combination of the compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence. For example, one of such compounds is used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used in another embodiment, three of the compounds are used in another embodiment, and four of the compounds are used in another embodiment.

[0202] In the composition of the present invention, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (L-7) needs to be appropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, image-sticking, and dielectric anisotropy.

[0203] The lower limit of the preferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-7) is 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 14%, 16%, or 20% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention. The upper limit of the preferred amount of a compound represented by Formula (L-7) is 30%, 25%, 23%, 20%, 18%, 15%, 10%, or 5% relative to the amount of the whole composition of the present invention.

[0204] In an embodiment in which the composition of the present invention needs to have a high Tni, the amount of the compound represented by Formula (L-7) is preferably adjusted to be larger; in an embodiment in which the composition needs to have a low viscosity, the amount thereof is preferably adjusted to be smaller.

[0205] The compound represented by General Formula (L-7) is preferably any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-7.1) to (L-7.4), and also preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-7.2).

##STR00064##

[0206] Furthermore, the compound represented by General Formula (L-7) is preferably any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-7.11) to (L-7.13), and also preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-7.11).

##STR00065##

[0207] Moreover, the compound represented by General Formula (L-7) is any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-7.21) to (L-7.23), and preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-7.21).

##STR00066##

[0208] Furthermore, the compound represented by General Formula (L-7) is preferably any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-7.31) to (L-7.34), and also preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-7.31) and/or the compound represented by Formula (L-7.32).

##STR00067##

[0209] Moreover, the compound represented by General Formula (L-7) is preferably any of compounds represented by Formulae (L-7.41) to (L-7.44), and also preferably the compound represented by Formula (L-7.41) and/or the compound represented by Formula (L-7.42).

##STR00068##

[0210] In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the lower limit of the amount of the compounds represented by General Formula (a) and General Formulae (LC3) to (LC5) in the composition is preferably not less than 5% (the term “%” used in the description of the composition hereinafter refers to mass %), also preferably not less than 10%, also preferably not less than 13%, also preferably not less than 15%, also preferably not less than 18%, also preferably not less than 20%, also preferably not less than 23%, also preferably not less than 25%, also preferably not less than 28%, also preferably not less than 30%, also preferably not less than 33%, also preferably not less than 35%, also preferably not less than 38%, or also preferably not less than 40%. The upper limit is preferably not more than 95%, also preferably not more than 90%, also preferably not more than 88%, also preferably not more than 85%, also preferably not more than 83%, also preferably not more than 80%, also preferably not more than 78%, also preferably not more than 75%, also preferably not more than 73%, also preferably not more than 70%, also preferably not more than 68%, also preferably not more than 65%, also preferably not more than 63%, also preferably not more than 60%, also preferably not more than 55%, also preferably not more than 50%, or also preferably not more than 40%.

[0211] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains the compound represented by General Formula (a) and the compound represented by General Formula (i). The lower limit of the total amount thereof in the composition is preferably not less than 1 mass %, also preferably not less than 3%, also preferably not less than 5%, also preferably not less than 10%, also preferably not less than 13%, also preferably not less than 15%, also preferably not less than 18%, also preferably not less than 20%, also preferably not less than 23%, also preferably not less than 25%, also preferably not less than 28%, also preferably not less than 30%, also preferably not less than 33%, also preferably not less than 35%, also preferably not less than 38%, or also preferably not less than 40%. The upper limit is preferably not more than 100%, also preferably not more than 99%, also preferably not more than 95%, also preferably not more than 90%, also preferably not more than 85%, also preferably not more than 80%, also preferably not more than 75%, also preferably not more than 70%, also preferably not more than 65%, also preferably not more than 60%, also preferably not more than 55%, also preferably not more than 50%, also preferably not more than 40%, also preferably not more than 38%, also preferably not more than 35%, also preferably not more than 33%, also preferably not more than 30%, also preferably not more than 28%, also preferably not more than 25%, also preferably not more than 23%, also preferably not more than 20%, also preferably not more than 18%, also preferably not more than 15%, or also preferably not more than 10%.

[0212] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains the compound represented by General Formula (a) and the compound represented by General Formula (ii). The lower limit of the total amount thereof in the composition is preferably not less than 1%, also preferably not less than 3%, also preferably not less than 5%, also preferably not less than 10%, also preferably not less than 13%, also preferably not less than 15%, also preferably not less than 18%, also preferably not less than 20%, also preferably not less than 23%, also preferably not less than 25%, also preferably not less than 28%, also preferably not less than 30%, also preferably not less than 33%, also preferably not less than 35%, also preferably not less than 38%, or also preferably not less than 40%. The upper limit is preferably not more than 100%, also preferably not more than 99%, also preferably not more than 95%, also preferably not more than 90%, also preferably not more than 85%, also preferably not more than 80%, also preferably not more than 75%, also preferably not more than 70%, also preferably not more than 65%, also preferably not more than 60%, also preferably not more than 55%, also preferably not more than 50%, also preferably not more than 40%, also preferably not more than 38%, also preferably not more than 35%, also preferably not more than 33%, also preferably not more than 30%, also preferably not more than 28%, also preferably not more than 25%, also preferably not more than 23%, also preferably not more than 20%, also preferably not more than 18%, also preferably not more than 15%, or also preferably not more than 10%.

[0213] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains the compound represented by General Formula (a) and the compound represented by General Formula (L). The lower limit of the total amount thereof in the composition is preferably not less than 5%, also preferably not less than 10%, also preferably not less than 13%, also preferably not less than 15%, also preferably not less than 18%, also preferably not less than 20%, also preferably not less than 23%, also preferably not less than 25%, also preferably not less than 28%, also preferably not less than 30%, also preferably not less than 33%, also preferably not less than 35%, also preferably not less than 38%, or also preferably not less than 40%. The upper limit is preferably not more than 95%, also preferably not more than 90%, also preferably not more than 88%, also preferably not more than 85%, also preferably not more than 83%, also preferably not more than 80%, also preferably not more than 78%, also preferably not more than 75%, also preferably not more than 73%, also preferably not more than 70%, also preferably not more than 68%, also preferably not more than 65%, also preferably not more than 63%, also preferably not more than 60%, also preferably not more than 55%, also preferably not more than 50%, or also preferably not more than 40%.

[0214] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferably contains the compound represented by General Formula (a) and the compound represented by General Formula (L-1). The lower limit of the total amount thereof in the composition is preferably not less than 1%, also preferably not less than 3%, also preferably not less than 5%, also preferably not less than 10%, also preferably not less than 13%, also preferably not less than 15%, also preferably not less than 18%, also preferably not less than 20%, also preferably not less than 23%, also preferably not less than 25%, also preferably not less than 28%, also preferably not less than 30%, also preferably not less than 33%, also preferably not less than 35%, also preferably not less than 38%, or also preferably not less than 40%. The upper limit is preferably not more than 95%, also preferably not more than 90%, also preferably not more than 88%, also preferably not more than 85%, also preferably not more than 83%, also preferably not more than 80%, also preferably not more than 78%, also preferably not more than 75%, also preferably not more than 73%, also preferably not more than 70%, also preferably not more than 68%, also preferably not more than 65%, also preferably not more than 63%, also preferably not more than 60%, also preferably not more than 55%, also preferably not more than 50%, or also preferably not more than 40%.

[0215] In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the total amount of the compounds represented by General Formulae (a), (LC3) to (LC5), and (L) is preferably in the range of 70 to 100 mass %, more preferably 80 to 100 mass %, further preferably 85 to 100 mass %, further preferably 90 to 100 mass %, and especially preferably 95 to 100 mass %.

[0216] The dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈) of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention at 25° C. is from −1.5 to −8.0, preferably −2.0 to −6.0, more preferably −2.0 to −5.0, and especially preferably −2.5 to −4.0.

[0217] The refractive index anisotropy (Δn) of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention at 20° C. is from 0.08 to 0.14, preferably 0.09 to 0.13, and especially preferably 0.09 to 0.12. More specifically, the refractive index anisotropy is preferably from 0.10 to 0.13 for a thin cell gap or preferably from 0.08 to 0.10 for a thick cell gap.

[0218] The viscosity (η) of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention at 20° C. is from 10 to 30 mPa.Math.s, preferably 10 to 25 mPa.Math.s, and especially preferably 10 to 22 mPa.Math.s.

[0219] The rotational viscosity (γ.sub.1) of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention at 20° C. is from 60 to 130 mPa.Math.s, preferably 60 to 110 mPa.Math.s, and especially preferably 60 to 100 mPa.Math.s.

[0220] The nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (T.sub.ni) of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention is from 60° C. to 120° C., preferably 70° C. to 100° C., and especially preferably 70° C. to 85° C.

[0221] The liquid crystal composition of the present invention may contain general nematic liquid crystal, smectic liquid crystal, cholesteric liquid crystal, an antioxidant, an ultraviolet absorber, an infrared absorber, a polymerizable monomer, and a light stabilizer in addition to the above-mentioned compounds.

[0222] The liquid crystal composition, for example, contains 0.01 to 2 mass % of a polymerizable compound as a polymerizable monomer, such as a biphenyl derivative or a terphenyl derivative.

[0223] The polymerizable monomer to be used may be at least one monofunctional polymerizable compound having one reactive group or at least one polyfunctional polymerizable compound having two or more reactive groups, such as difunctional or trifunctional polymerizable compound. The polymerizable compound having a reactive group may contain a mesogenic part or may be free therefrom.

[0224] In the polymerizable compound having a reactive group, the reactive group is preferably a photopolymerizable substituent.

[0225] The polymerizable compound used in the present invention is preferably a compound represented by General Formula (P).

##STR00069##

[0226] (in General Formula (P), Z.sup.p1 represents a fluorine atom, a cyano group, a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group which has 1 to 15 carbon atoms and of which a hydrogen atom is optionally substituted with a halogen atom, an alkoxyl group which has 1 to 15 carbon atoms and of which a hydrogen atom is optionally substituted with a halogen atom, an alkenyl group which has 1 to 15 carbon atoms and of which a hydrogen atom is optionally substituted with a halogen atom, an alkenyloxy group which has 1 to 15 carbon atoms and of which a hydrogen atom is optionally substituted with a halogen atom, or -Sp.sup.p2-R.sup.p2;

[0227] R.sup.p1 and R.sup.p2 each independently represent any of groups represented by Formulae (R-I) to (R-IX);

##STR00070##

[0228] in Formulae (R-I) to (R-IX), R.sup.2 to R.sup.6 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or a halogenated alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, W represents a single bond, —O—, or a methylene group, T represents a single bond or —COO—, and p, t, and q each independently represent 0, 1, or 2;

[0229] Sp.sup.p1 and Sp.sup.p2 each represent a spacer group;

[0230] L.sup.p1 and L.sup.p2 each independently represent a single bond, —O—, —S—, —CH.sub.2—, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —CO—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4—, —COO—, —OCO—, —OCOOCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2OCOO—, —OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2O—, —CO—NR.sup.a—, —NR.sup.a—CO—, —SCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2S—, —CH═CR.sup.a—COO—, —CH═CR.sup.a—OCO—, —COO—CR.sup.a═CH—, —OCO—CR.sup.a═CH—, —COO—CR.sup.a═CH—COO—, —COO—CR.sup.a═CH—OCO—, —OCO—CR.sup.a═CH—COO—, —OCO—CR.sup.a═CH—OCO—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.2—C(═O)—O—, —(CH.sub.2)z-O—(C═O)—, —O—(C═O)—(CH.sub.2)z-, —(C═O)—O—(CH.sub.2)z-, —CH═CH—, —CF═CF—, —CF═CH—, —CH═CF—, —CF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2O—, —OCF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2CH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2CF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2CF.sub.2—, or —C≡C— (where R.sup.a's each independently represent a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and z represents an integer from 1 to 4);

[0231] M.sup.p2 represents a 1,4-phenylene group, a 1,4-cyclohexylene group, an anthracene-2,6-diyl group, a phenanthrene-2,7-diyl group, a pyridine-2,5-diyl group, a pyrimidine-2,5-diyl group, a naphthalen-2,6-diyl group, an indane-2,5-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-2,6-diyl group, or a 1,3-dioxane-2,5-diyl group; M.sup.p2 may be unsubstituted or substituted with an alkyl group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, a halogenated alkyl group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, a halogenated alkoxy group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, a halogen atom, a cyano group, a nitro group, or —R.sup.p1;

[0232] M.sup.p1 represents any of Formulae (i-11) to (ix-11)

##STR00071##

[0233] (in each of the formulae, the symbol * represents the linkage to Sp.sup.p1, and the symbol ** represents the linkage to L.sup.p1 or L.sup.p2);

[0234] M.sup.p3 represents any of Formulae (i-13) to (ix-13)

##STR00072##

[0235] (in each of the formulae, the symbol * represents the linkage to Zp.sup.p1, and the symbol ** represents the linkage to L.sup.p2);

[0236] m.sup.p2 to m.sup.p4 each independently represent 0, 1, 2, or 3; m.sup.p1 and m.sup.p5 each independently represent 1, 2, or 3; in the case where Z.sup.p1 is multiple, the multiple Z.sup.p1's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where R.sup.p1 is multiple, the multiple R.sup.p1's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where R.sup.p2 is multiple, the multiple R.sup.p2's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where Sp.sup.p1 is multiple, the multiple Sp.sup.p1's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where Sp.sup.p2 is multiple, the multiple Sp.sup.p2's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where L.sup.p1 is multiple, the multiple L.sup.p1's may be the same as or different from each other; and in the case where M.sup.p2 is multiple, the multiple M.sup.p2's may be the same as or different from each other) It is preferred that at least one of such polymerizable monomers be used.

[0237] In General Formula (1) in the present invention, Z.sup.p1 is preferably -Sp.sup.p2-R.sup.p2, and R.sup.11 and R.sup.12 are preferably each independently represented by Formula (R-1) or (R-3).

[0238] In General Formula (P), m.sup.p1+m.sup.p5 is preferably two or more.

[0239] In General Formula (P), L.sup.p1 is preferably a single bond, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —CO—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4—, —COO—, —OCO—, —COOC.sub.2H.sub.4—, —OCOC.sub.2H.sub.4—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4OCO—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4COO—, —CH═CH—, —CF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2O—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.z—C(═O)—O—, —(CH.sub.2)z-O—(C═O)—, —O—(C═O)—(CH.sub.2)z-, —CH═CH—COO—, —COO—CH═CH—, —OCOCH═CH—, —(C═O)—O—(CH.sub.2)z-, —OCF.sub.2—, or —C≡C—; L.sup.p2 is preferably —OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2O—, —COOC.sub.2H.sub.4—, —OCOC.sub.2H.sub.4—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.z—C(═O)—O—, —(CH.sub.2)z-O—(C═O)—, —O—(C═O)—(CH.sub.2)z-, —(C═O)—O—(CH.sub.2)z-, —CH═CH—COO—, —COO—CH═CH—, —OCOCH═CH—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4OCO—, or —C.sub.2H.sub.4COO—; and z in these formulae is preferably an integer from 1 to 4.

[0240] In General Formula (P), at least any of L.sup.p1 and L.sup.p2 is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of —(CH.sub.2).sub.z—C(═O)—O—, —(CH.sub.2)z-O—(C═O)—, —O—(C═O)—(CH.sub.2)z-, and —(C═O)—O—(CH.sub.2)z-.

[0241] In General Formula (P), R.sup.p1 and R.sup.p2 being each independently represented by any of Formulae (R-1) to (R-15)

##STR00073##

[0242] are preferred.

[0243] In General Formula (P), m.sup.p3 preferably represents 0, 1, 2, or 3; in the case where m.sup.p2 represents 1, L.sup.p1 is preferably a single bond; in the case where m.sup.p2 represents 2 or 3, at least one of the multiple L.sup.p1's is preferably a single bond.

[0244] In General Formula (P), m.sup.p3 preferably represents 0, 1, 2, or 3; in the case where m.sup.p3 represents 1, M.sup.p2 is preferably a 1,4-phenylene group; in the case where m.sup.p3 represents 2 or 3, at least one of the multiple M.sup.2's that is present close to M.sup.p1 with L.sup.p1 interposed therebetween is preferably a 1,4-phenylene group.

[0245] In General Formula (P), m.sup.p3 preferably represents 0, 1, 2, or 3; and at least one M.sup.p2 is preferably a 1,4-phenylene group substituted with one or more fluorine atoms.

[0246] In General Formula (P), m.sup.p4 preferably represents 0, 1, 2, or 3; and at least one M.sup.p3 is preferably a 1,4-phenylene group substituted with one or more fluorine atoms.

[0247] In General Formula (P), the spacer groups (Sp.sup.p1, Sp.sup.p2, and Sp.sup.p4) are each preferably a single bond, —OCH.sub.2—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.zO—, —CO—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4—, —COO—, —OCO—, —COOC.sub.2H.sub.4—, —OCOC.sub.2H.sub.4—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.z—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4OCO—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4COO—, —CH═CH—, —CF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2O—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.z—C(═O)—O—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.z—O—(C═O)—, —O—(C═O)—(CH.sub.2).sub.z—, —(C═O)—O—(CH.sub.2).sub.z—, —O—(CH.sub.2)—O—, —OCF.sub.2—, —CH═CH—COO—, —COO—CH═CH—, —OCOCH═CH—, or —C≡C—, where Z is preferably an integer from 1 to 10.

[0248] The specific amount of the polymerizable monomer in the polymerizable-monomer-containing liquid crystal composition is preferably not more than 2%, more preferably not more than 1.5%, further preferably not more than 1%, especially preferably not more than 0.5%, and most preferably not more than 0.4%; namely, it is 2% or less.

[0249] The polymerizable compound represented by General Formula (P) in the present invention is preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formulae (P-a), (P-b), (P-c), and (P-d).

##STR00074##

[0250] In each of General Formulae (P-a) to (P-d), R.sup.p1 and R.sup.p2 each independently represent any of Formulae (R-I) to (R-IX);

##STR00075##

[0251] in Formulae (R-I) to (R-IX), R.sup.2 to R.sup.6 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or a halogenated alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, W represents a single bond, —O—, or a methylene group, T represents a single bond or —COO—, and p, t, and q each independently represent 0, 1, or 2;

[0252] the rings A and B each independently represent a 1,4-phenylene group, a 1,4-cyclohexylene group, an anthracene-2,6-diyl group, a phenanthrene-2,7-diyl group, a pyridine-2,5-diyl group, a pyrimidine-2,5-diyl group, a naphthalen-2,6-diyl group, an indane-2,5-diyl group, a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-2,6-diyl group, or a 1,3-dioxane-2,5-diyl group and are each preferably unsubstituted or substituted with an alkyl group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, a halogenated alkyl group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, a halogenated alkoxy group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, a halogen atom, a cyano group, a nitro group, or —R.sup.p1;

[0253] the ring C is represented by any of Formulae (c-i) to (c-ix)

##STR00076##

[0254] (in each of the formulae, the symbol * represents the linkage to Sp.sup.p1, and the symbol ** represents the linkage to L.sup.p5 or L.sup.p6);

[0255] Sp.sup.p1 and Sp.sup.p4 each represent a spacer group; X.sup.p1 to X.sup.p4 preferably each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a halogen atom; and

[0256] L.sup.p4, L.sup.p5, and L.sup.p6 are preferably each independently a single bond, —OCH.sub.2—, —CH.sub.2O—, —CO—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4—, —COO—, —OCO—, —COOC.sub.2H.sub.4—, —OCOC.sub.2H.sub.4—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4OCO—, —C.sub.2H.sub.4COO—, —CH═CH—, —CF.sub.2—, —CF.sub.2O—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.z—C(═O)—O—, —(CH.sub.2).sub.z—O—(C═O)—, —O—(C═O)—(CH.sub.2).sub.z—, —(C═O)—O—(CH.sub.2).sub.z—, —O—(CH.sub.2).sub.z—O—, —OCF.sub.2—, —CH═CHCOO—, —COOCH═CH—, —OCOCH═CH—, or —C≡C—, where z is preferably an integer from 1 to 4.

[0257] L.sup.p3 is preferably —CH═CHCOO—, —COOCH═CH—, or —OCOCH═CH—.

[0258] In the compound represented by General Formula (P-a), m.sup.p6 and m.sup.p7 preferably each independently represent 0, 1, 2, or 3; and m.sup.p6+m.sup.p7 is preferably from 2 to 5.

[0259] In the compound represented by General Formula (P-b), m.sup.p8 and m.sup.p9 preferably each independently represent 1, 2, or 3; and m.sup.p6+m.sup.p7 is preferably 2 or 3.

[0260] In the compound represented by General Formula (P-c), m.sup.p10 and m.sup.p11 preferably each independently represent 0 or 1; and m.sup.p10+m.sup.p11 is preferably 0 or 1. Since the structure represented by General Formula (P-c) has phenanthrene, it is believed that the composition is highly photosensitizing as a whole.

[0261] In the compound represented by General Formula (P-d), m.sup.p12 and m.sup.p15 each independently represent 1, 2, or 3; m.sup.p13 preferably represents 0, 1, 2, or 3; and m.sup.p14 preferably represents 0, 1, or 2. m.sup.p12+m.sup.p15 is preferably from 2 to 5. In the case where R.sup.p1 is multiple, the multiple R.sup.p1's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where R.sup.p1 is multiple, the multiple R.sup.p1's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where R.sup.2 is multiple, the multiple R.sup.p2's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where SP.sup.p1 is multiple, the multiple SP.sup.p1's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where SP.sup.p4 is multiple, the multiple SP.sup.p4's may be the same as or different from each other; in the case where L.sup.p4 and L.sup.p5 are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other; and in the case where the rings A to C are multiple, the corresponding ones of them may be the same as or different from each other. In the polymerizable-monomer-containing composition used in the present invention, using the polymerizable monomer represented by General Formula (P-d) in combination with the compounds represented by General Formulae (1) and (2) enables a reduction in the length of the time for photopolymerization.

[0262] Preferred examples of the structures represented by General Formulae (P-a) to (P-d) in the present invention will now be described.

[0263] Preferred examples of the compound represented by General Formula (P-a) in the present invention include polymerizable compounds represented by Formulae (P-a-1) to (P-a-31).

##STR00077## ##STR00078## ##STR00079## ##STR00080##

[0264] The specific amount of the polymerizable monomer represented by General Formula (P-a) is preferably not more than 5%, more preferably not more than 3%, further preferably not more than 2%, especially preferably not more than 1%, and most preferably not more than 0.8%.

[0265] Preferred examples of the compound represented by General Formula (P-b) in the present invention include polymerizable compounds represented by Formulae (P-b-1) to (P-b-34).

##STR00081## ##STR00082## ##STR00083## ##STR00084## ##STR00085##

[0266] The specific amount of the polymerizable monomer represented by General Formula (P-b) (proportion to the whole of the polymerizable-monomer-containing liquid crystal composition) is preferably not more than 5%, more preferably not more than 3%, further preferably not more than 2%, especially preferably not more than 1%, and most preferably not more than 0.8%.

[0267] Preferred examples of the compound represented by General Formula (P-c) in the present invention include polymerizable compounds represented by Formulae (P-c-1) to (P-c-52).

##STR00086## ##STR00087## ##STR00088## ##STR00089## ##STR00090## ##STR00091## ##STR00092## ##STR00093##

[0268] The specific amount of the polymerizable monomer represented by General Formula (P-c) is preferably not more than 5%, more preferably not more than 3%, further preferably not more than 2%, especially preferably not more than 1%, and most preferably not more than 0.8%.

[0269] The compound represented by General Formula (P-d) in the present invention is preferably any of compounds represented by General Formula (P-d′).

##STR00094##

[0270] (in the compound represented by General Formula (P-d′), m.sup.p10 preferably represents 2 or 3. The other signs have the same meanings as those in General Formula (p-d), and the description thereof is therefore omitted)

[0271] Preferred examples of the compound represented by General Formula (P-d) in the present invention include polymerizable compounds represented by Formulae (P-d-1) to (P-d-37).

##STR00095## ##STR00096## ##STR00097## ##STR00098## ##STR00099##

[0272] The specific amount of the polymerizable monomer represented by General Formula (P-d) is preferably not more than 5%, more preferably not more than 3%, further preferably not more than 2%, especially preferably not more than 1%, and most preferably not more than 0.8%.

[0273] Compounds having the following structures can be preferably used as additives, such as an antioxidant and a light stabilizer, in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

##STR00100## ##STR00101## ##STR00102## ##STR00103## ##STR00104## ##STR00105## ##STR00106##

[0274] (in the formulae, n represents an integer from 0 to 20) A liquid crystal display device using the liquid crystal composition of the present invention has an excellent display quality, responds at high speed, and can be particularly applied to active-matrix liquid crystal display devices of a VA type, PSVA type, PSA type, FFS type, IPS type, and ECB type.

EXAMPLES

[0275] The present invention will now be described further in detail with reference to Examples; however, the present invention is not limited thereto. In compositions which will be described in Examples and Comparative Examples, the term “%” refers to “mass %”.

[0276] In Examples, compounds are abbreviated as follows. n represents a natural number.

(Side Chains)

[0277] -n —C.sub.nH.sub.2n+1 linear alkyl group having n carbon atoms

[0278] n- C.sub.nH.sub.2n+1— linear alkyl group having n carbon atoms

[0279] —On —OC.sub.nH.sub.2n+1 linear alkoxyl group having n carbon atoms

[0280] nO— C.sub.nH.sub.2n+1O— linear alkoxyl group having n carbon atoms

[0281] —V —CH═CH.sub.2

[0282] V— CH.sub.2═CH—

[0283] —V1 —CH═CH—CH.sub.3

[0284] 1V— CH.sub.3—CH═CH—

[0285] -2V —CH.sub.2—CH.sub.2—CH═CH.sub.3

[0286] V2- CH.sub.3═CH—CH.sub.2—CH.sub.2—

[0287] -2V1 —CH.sub.2—CH.sub.2—CH═CH—CH.sub.3

[0288] 1V2—CH.sub.3—CH═CH—CH.sub.2—CH.sub.2

(Linking Groups)

[0289] -n- —C.sub.nH.sub.2n—
-nO— —C.sub.nH.sub.2n—O—
—On- —O—C.sub.nH.sub.2n—

—COO— —C(═O)—O—

—OCO— —O—C(═O)—

—CF2O— —CF.SUB.2.—O—

—OCF2- —O—CF.SUB.2.—

(Ring Structures)

[0290] ##STR00107## ##STR00108##

[0291] In Examples, the following properties were measured.

[0292] T.sub.ni: Nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (° C.)

[0293] T.sub.cn: Solid phase-nematic phase transition temperature (° C.)

[0294] Δn: Refractive index anisotropy at 20° C.

[0295] Δ∈: Dielectric anisotropy at 20° C.

[0296] η: Viscosity at 20° C. (mPa.Math.s)

[0297] γ.sub.1: Rotational viscosity at 20° C. (mPa.Math.s)

[0298] K.sub.33: Elastic constant K.sub.33 at 20° C. (pN)

[0299] Initial Voltage Holding Ratio (VHR): VHR measured before UV radiation (%)

[0300] Voltage holding ratio (VHR) after UV radiation: VHR measured after UV radiation (%)

[0301] In the case of generating a pretilt angle in a test cell, the test cell was irradiated with 60 J (365 nm) of UV under application of a square wave voltage of 10 V at a frequency of 100 Hz. The UV light source was a multilight manufactured by USHIO INC.

[0302] In measurement of the response speed of a sample, a test cell having a thickness of 3.5 μm and including an alignment film of JALS2096 was used, Vsel was 5 V, Vnsel was 1 V, measurement temperature was 20° C., and DMS301 manufactured by AUTRONIC-MELCHERS GmbH was used.

[0303] In evaluation of the UV resistance of a test cell, UV was radiated at 100 mW/cm.sup.2 for a predetermined time with SP-7 (manufactured by USHIO INC.), and VHRs before and after the UV radiation were measured.

[0304] VHRs were measured with VHR-1 (manufactured by TOYO Corporation) at 1 V, 60 Hz, and 60° C.

[0305] The compounds (P-b-1), (P-b-3), (P-a-31), (P-d-29), and (P-d-37) were used as representative examples of a polymerizable compound; however, the present invention is not limited thereto.

##STR00109##

Comparative Example 1 and Examples 1-1 to 1-4

[0306] Liquid crystal compositions LC-A (Comparative Example 1), LC-A1 (Example 1-1), LC-A2 (Example 1-2), LC-A3 (Example 1-3), and LC-A4 (Example 1-4) were prepared. Table 1 shows the constitution and physical properties of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Com- para- tive Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- ple ple ple ple ple 1 1-1 1-2 1-3 1-4 LC-A LC-A1 LC-A2 LC-A3 LG-A4 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 7.0% 5.0% 3.0% 5.0% 5-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 3-Ph—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 5.0% 3-Np—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 3.0% 3-Cy-Cy-2 16.0% 20.0% 20.0% 20.0% 19.0% 3-Cy-Cy-4 7.0% 8.0% 8.0% 8.0% 8.0% 3-Cy-Cy-5 4.0% 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 3-Ph—Ph—O1 3.0% 3.0% 3.0% 3.0% 3.0% 5-Ph—Ph—O1 3.0% 3.0% 3.0% 5-Ph—Ph-1 9.0% 4.0% 7.0% 3.0% 8.0% 3-Cy-Cy-Ph-1 7.0% 7.0% 6.0% 7.0% 7.0% 3-Cy-Cy-Ph-3 4.0% 3-Cy-1O—Ph5—O1 6.0% 6.0% 4.0% 6.0% 5.0% 3-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 8.0% 8.0% 9.0% 10.0% 9.0% 3-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O3 7.0% 7.0% 7.0% 7.0% 7.0% 3-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O4 6.0% 6.0% 6.0% 6.0% 6.0% 4-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O3 6.0% 6.0% 6.0% 2-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 6.0% 2.0% 6.0% 6.0% 3-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 8.0% 8.0% 9.0% 8.0% 9.0% Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Tni [° C.] 76 76 76 75 76 Δn 0.102 0.104 0.103 0.103 0.103 Δε −2.9 −2.9 −3.0 −3.0 −2.9 γ.sub.1 [mPa .Math. s] 122 124 119 124 116 K.sub.33 [pN] 13.0 14.5 14.9 14.7 15.2 γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 [mPa .Math. s .Math. pN.sup.−1] 9.4 8.6 8.0 8.4 7.6

[0307] Each of the LC-A1, LC-A2, LC-A3, and LC-A4 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently small γ.sub.1 and large K.sub.33. Thus, in the LC-A1 to LC-A4, γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 that is the indicator of response speed was clearly smaller than the LC-A as the comparative example. In addition, the response speed thereof was measured, and the result of the measurement showed an improvement in the response speed in a similar degree.

[0308] The prepared liquid crystal compositions LC-A, LC-A1, LC-A2, LC-A3, and LC-A4 were vacuum-injected into test cells, and then the test cells were subjected to measurement of VHRs before and after UV radiation. Each of the LC-A1, LC-A2, LC-A3, and LC-A4 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had an approximately similar VHR to the LC-A as Comparative Example 1 after the UV radiation, which showed that the improvement in the response speed did not have any adverse effect on the UV resistance of the liquid crystal materials.

[0309] Accordingly, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently good nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (T.sub.ni), refractive index anisotropy (Δn), dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈), rotational viscosity (γ.sub.1), elastic constant (K.sub.33), and UV resistance; and the liquid crystal display device of, for instance, a VA type that used such a liquid crystal composition had an excellent display quality.

Comparative Example 2 and Examples 2-1 to 2-3

[0310] Liquid crystal compositions LC-B (Comparative Example 2), LC-B1 (Example 2-1), LC-B2 (Example 2-2), and LC-B3 (Example 2-3) were prepared. Table 2 shows the constitution and physical properties of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Compara- tive Example Example Example Example 2 2-1 2-2 2-3 LC-B LC-B1 LC-B2 LC-B3 1-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 2-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 3-Cy-Cy-2 18.0% 19.0% 19.0% 20.0% 3-Cy-Cy-4 8.0% 8.0% 8.0% 8.0% 3-Cy-Ph—O1 4.0% 4.0% 4.0% 5.0% 3-Ph—Ph-1 11.0% 10.0% 11.0% 8.0% 3-Cy-Cy-Ph-1 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 3-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 11.0% 11.0% 9.0% 10.0% 3-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O3 7.0% 7.0% 7.0% 3.0% 3-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O4 8.0% 8.0% 8.0% 8.0% 4-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O3 6.0% 3.0% 2-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 6.0% 6.0% 6.0% 6.0% 3-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 11.0% 12.0% 13.0% 11.0% 3-Ph—Ph5—Ph-2 5.0% 5.0% 3.0% Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Tni [° C.] 75 75 76 75 Δn 0.109 0.109 0.109 0.108 Δε −3.1 −3.1 −3.1 −3.1 γ.sub.1 [mPa .Math. s] 118 112 117 121 K.sub.33 [pN] 13.0 14.0 15.0 14.8 γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 [mPa .Math. s .Math. pN.sup.−1] 9.1 8.0 7.8 8.2

[0311] Each of the LC-B1, LC-B2, and LC-B3 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently small γ.sub.1 and large K.sub.33. Thus, in the LC-B1 to LC-B3, γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 that is the indicator of response speed was clearly smaller than the LC-B as the comparative example. In addition, the response speed thereof was measured, and the result of the measurement showed an improvement in the response speed in a similar degree.

[0312] The prepared liquid crystal compositions LC-B, LC-B1, LC-B2, and LC-B3 were vacuum-injected into test cells, and then the test cells were subjected to measurement of VHRs before and after UV radiation. Each of the LC-B1, LC-B2, and LC-B3 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had an approximately similar VHR to the LC-B as the comparative example after the UV radiation, which showed that the improvement in the response speed did not have any adverse effect on the UV resistance of the liquid crystal materials.

[0313] Accordingly, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently good nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (T.sub.ni), refractive index anisotropy (Δn), dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈), rotational viscosity (γ.sub.1), elastic constant (K.sub.33), and UV resistance; and the liquid crystal display device of, for instance, a VA type that used such a liquid crystal composition had an excellent display quality.

Comparative Example 3 and Examples 3-1 to 3-4

[0314] Liquid crystal compositions LC-C(Comparative Example 3), LC-C1 (Example 3-1), LC-C2 (Example 3-2), LC-C3 (Example 3-3), and LC-C4 (Example 3-4) were prepared. Table 3 shows the constitution and physical properties of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Com- para- tive Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- ple ple ple ple ple 3 3-1 3-2 3-3 3-4 LC-C LC-C1 LC-C2 LC-C3 LC-C4 1-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O1 5.0% 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 10.0% 5.0% 4-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 5-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 3-Ph—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 5.0% 3-Np—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 3.0% 3-Cy-Cy-V 39.0% 39.0% 28.0% 39.0% 33.0% 3-Cy-Cy-V1 14.0% 8.0% 3-Ph—Ph-1 5.0% 6.0% 4.0% 6.0% 5.0% 3-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 9.0% 7.0% 11.0% 7.0% 10.0% 2-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 12.5% 12.0% 10.0% 12.0% 11.0% 3-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 13.0% 13.0% 11.0% 13.0% 13.0% 4-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 3.5% 3.0% 3.0% 3-Ph—Ph5—Ph-1 9.0% 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 3-Ph—Ph5—Ph-2 9.0% 5.0% 7.0% 5.0% 7.0% Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Tni [° C.] 75 76 76 76 75 Δn 0.108 0.108 0.108 0.108 0.108 Δε −3.1 −3.1 −3.1 −3.2 −3.1 γ.sub.1 [mPa .Math. s] 96 100 103 98 97 K.sub.33 [pN] 14.3 15.8 16.8 15.8 15.9 γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 [mPa .Math. s .Math. pN.sup.−1] 6.7 6.3 6.1 6.2 6.1

[0315] Each of the LC-C1, LC-C2, LC-C3, and LC-C4 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently small γ.sub.1 and large K.sub.33. Thus, in the LC-C1 to LC-C4, γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 that is the indicator of response speed was clearly smaller than the LC-C as the comparative example. In addition, the response speed thereof was measured, and the result of the measurement showed an improvement in the response speed in a similar degree.

[0316] The prepared liquid crystal compositions LC-C, LC-C1, LC-C2, LC-C3, and LC-C4 were vacuum-injected into test cells, and then the test cells were subjected to measurement of VHRs before and after UV radiation. Each of the LC-C1, LC-C2, LC-C3, and LC-C4 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had an approximately similar or improved VHR after the UV radiation as compared with the LC-C as the comparative example, which showed that the improvement in the response speed did not have any adverse effect on the UV resistance of the liquid crystal materials.

[0317] Accordingly, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently good nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (T.sub.ni), refractive index anisotropy (Δn), dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈), rotational viscosity (γ.sub.1), elastic constant (K.sub.33), and UV resistance; and the liquid crystal display device of, for example, a VA type that used such a liquid crystal composition had an excellent display quality.

Comparative Example 4 and Examples 4-1 to 4-4

[0318] Liquid crystal compositions LC-D (Comparative Example 4), LC-D1 (Example 4-1), LC-D2 (Example 4-2), LC-D3 (Example 4-3), and LC-D4 (Example 4-4) were prepared. Table 4 shows the constitution and physical properties of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Com- para- tive Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- ple ple ple ple ple 4 4-1 4-2 4-3 4-4 LC-D LC-D1 LC-D2 LC-D3 LC-D4 1-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 2-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 6.0% 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O1 6.0% 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 8.0% 8.0% 5.0% 5-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 6.0% 3-Ph—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 4.5% 3-Np—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 3.0% 3-Cy-Cy-V 26.5% 23.5% 28.0% 31.0% 23.0% 3-Cy-Cy-V1 10.0% 10.0% 10.0% 7.0% 10.0% 3-Ph—Ph-1 3.0% 7.0% 6.5% 3.5% 7.0% 3-Cy-Ph—Ph-2 1.5% 6.0% 5.0% 3-Cy-1O—Ph5—O1 5.0% 5.0% 4.0% 5.0% 3-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 11.0% 10.0% 12.0% 10.0% 11.0% 2-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 7.0% 5.5% 5.0% 5.0% 7.0% 3-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 12.0% 12.0% 11.5% 10.0% 12.0% 1V-Cy-Cy- 7.0% 7.0% 7.0% 10.0% 7.0% 1O—Ph5—O2 3-Ph—Ph5—Ph-1 5.0% 5.0% 3-Ph—Ph5—Ph-2 12.0% 5.0% 5.0% Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Tni [° C.] 76 76 75 76 76 Δn 0.109 0.108 0.108 0.108 0.108 Δε −3.7 −3.6 −3.6 −3.7 −3.7 γ.sub.1 [mPa .Math. s] 109 114 117 110 116 K.sub.33 [pN] 15.4 17.5 17.7 17.2 17.3 γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 [mPa .Math. s .Math. pN.sup.−1] 7.1 6.5 6.6 6.4 6.7

[0319] Each of the LC-D1, LC-D2, LC-D3, and LC-D4 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently small γ.sub.1 and large K.sub.33. Thus, in the LC-D1 to LC-D4, γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 that is the indicator of response speed was clearly smaller than the LC-D as the comparative example. In addition, the response speed thereof was measured, and the result of the measurement showed an improvement in the response speed in a similar degree.

[0320] The prepared liquid crystal compositions LC-D, LC-D1, LC-D2, LC-D3, and LC-D4 were vacuum-injected into test cells, and the test cells were subjected to measurement of VHRs before and after UV radiation. Each of the LC-D1, LC-D2, LC-D3, and LC-D4 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had an approximately similar or improved VHR after the UV radiation as compared with the LC-D as the comparative example, which showed that the improvement in the response speed did not have any adverse effect on the UV resistance of the liquid crystal materials.

[0321] Accordingly, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently good nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (T.sub.ni), refractive index anisotropy (Δn), dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈), rotational viscosity (γ.sub.1), elastic constant (K.sub.33), and UV resistance; and the liquid crystal display device of, for example, a VA type that used such a liquid crystal composition had an excellent display quality.

Comparative Example 5 and Examples 5-1 to 5-4

[0322] Liquid crystal compositions LC-E (Comparative Example 5), LC-E1 (Example 5-1), LC-E2 (Example 5-2), LC-E3 (Example 5-3), and LC-E4 (Example 5-4) were prepared. Table 5 shows the constitution and physical properties of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 Com- para- tive Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- ple ple ple ple ple 5 5-1 5-2 5-3 5-4 LC-E LC-E1 LC-E2 LC-E3 LG-E4 2-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O1 7.0% 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 10.0% 10.0% 8.0% 10.0% 4-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 4.0% 5.0% 5-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 4.0% 3-Cy-Cy-V 20.0% 20.0% 26.0% 20.0% 24.0% 2-Cy-Cy-V1 5.0% 11.0% 3-Cy-Cy-V1 10.0% 10.5% 10.0% 12.0% 10.0% 3-Ph—Ph-1 7.5% 9.0% 7.5% 7.0% 3-Cy-Ph—Ph-2 6.0% 6.0% 5-Cy-Ph—Ph-2 3.5% 1V-Cy-Ph—Ph-3 3.5% 5.0% 3-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 11.0% 11.0% 10.5% 9.0% 7.0% V-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 7.0% 1V-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 2-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 6.0% 6.0% 2.0% 3-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 13.0% 13.0% 13.0% 9.0% 12.0% V-Cy-Cy-1O—Ph5—O2 12.0% 1V-Cy-Cy- 9.0% 6.0% 9.0% 6.0% 1O—Ph5—O2 3-Ph—Ph5—Ph-1 5.0% 3-Ph—Ph5—Ph-2 5.0% 3-Np—Ph5—Ph-2 2.0% Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Tni [° C.] 76 76 76 76 75 Δn 0.109 0.109 0.108 0.108 0.108 Δε −3.7 −3.6 −3.6 −3.6 −3.6 γ.sub.1 [mPa .Math. s] 115 116 115 119 106 K.sub.33 [pN] 16.9 17.0 18.2 19.0 16.8 γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 [mPa .Math. s .Math. pN.sup.−1] 6.8 6.8 6.3 6.3 6.3

[0323] Each of the LC-E1, LC-E2, LC-E3, and LC-E4 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently small γ.sub.1 and large K.sub.33. Thus, in the LC-E1 to LC-E4, γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 that is the indicator of response speed was clearly smaller than the LC-E as the comparative example. In addition, the response speed thereof was measured, and the result of the measurement showed an improvement in the response speed in a similar degree.

[0324] The prepared liquid crystal compositions LC-E, LC-E1, LC-E2, LC-E3, and LC-E4 were vacuum-injected into test cells, and then the test cells were subjected to measurement of VHRs before and after UV radiation. Each of the LC-E1, LC-E2, LC-E3, and LC-E4 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had an approximately similar or improved VHR after the UV radiation as compared with the LC-E as the comparative example, which showed that the improvement in the response speed did not have any adverse effect on the UV resistance of the liquid crystal materials.

[0325] Accordingly, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently good nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (T.sub.ni), refractive index anisotropy (Δn), dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈), rotational viscosity (γ.sub.1), elastic constant (K.sub.33), and UV resistance; and the liquid crystal display device of, for instance, a VA type that used such a liquid crystal composition had an excellent display quality.

Examples 6-1 to 6-8

[0326] Liquid crystal compositions MLC-A2 (Example 6-1), MLC-A4 (Example 6-2), MLC-B3 (Example 6-3), MLC-C1 (Example 6-4), MLC-D3 (Example 6-5), MLC-E2 (Example 6-6), MLC-E3 (Example 6-7), and MLC-E4 (Example 6-8) were prepared. Tables 6-1 and 6-2 show the constitution of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 Example Example Example Example 6-1 6-2 6-3 6-4 MLC-A2 MLC-A4 MLC-B3 MLC-G1 Liquid crystal LC-A2 99.60% composition LC-A4 99.60% LC-B3 99.60% LC-C1 99.60% Polymerizable Formula 0.40% 0.40% 0.40% 0.40% compound (P-b-3) Total 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 Example Example Example Example 6-5 6-6 6-7 6-8 MLC-D3 MLC-E2 MLC-E3 MLC-E4 Liquid crystal LC-D3 99.60% composition LC-E2 99.60% LC-E3 99.60% LC-E4 99.60% Polymerizable Formula 0.40% 0.40% 0.40% 0.40% compound (P-b-3) Total 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

[0327] In each of the MLC-A2, MLC-A4, MLC-B3, MLC-C1, MLC-D3, MLC-E2, MLC-E3, and MLC-E4 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, a proper pretilt angle ranging from 85 to 880 was generated in the test cell. Liquid crystal display devices of a PSVA or PSA type that used such liquid crystal compositions had an excellent display quality.

Examples 7-1 to 7-7

[0328] Liquid crystal compositions MLC-E11 (Example 7-1), MLC-E12 (Example 7-2), MLC-E13 (Example 7-3), MLC-E14 (Example 7-4), MLC-E15 (Example 7-5), MLC-E16 (Example 7-6), and MLC-E17 (Example 7-7) were prepared. Tables 7-1 and 7-2 show the constitution of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 Example Example Example Example 7-1 7-2 7-3 74 MLC-E11 MLC-E12 MLC-E13 MLC-E14 Liquid crystal LC-E1 99.70% 99.60% 99.60% 99.60% composition Polymerizable Formula 0.30% compound (P-b-1) Formula 0.40% 0.35% (P-b-3) Formula 0.40% 0.05% (P-a-31) Total 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 Example Example Example 7-5 7-6 7-7 MLC-E15 MLC-E16 MLC-E17 Liquid crystal LC-E1 99.60% 99.80% 99.60% composition Polymerizable Formula (P-d-29) 0.40% 0.35% compound Formula (P-d-37) 0.20% 0.05% Total 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

[0329] In each of the MLC-E11 (Example 7-1), MLC-E12 (Example 7-2), MLC-E13 (Example 7-3), MLC-E14 (Example 7-4), MLC-E15 (Example 7-5), MLC-E16 (Example 7-6), and MLC-E17 (Example 7-7) as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, a proper pretilt angle ranging from 85 to 88° was generated in the test cell. Liquid crystal display devices of a PSVA or PSA type that used such liquid crystal compositions had an excellent display quality.

Comparative Examples 6 and 7 and Examples 8 and 9

[0330] Liquid crystal compositions LC-F (Comparative Example 6), LC-F1 (Example 8), LC-G (Comparative Example 7), and LC-G1 (Example 9) were prepared. Table 5 shows the constitution and physical properties of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 10 Compara- Compara- tive Example tive Example Example 6 8 Example 7 9 LC-F LC-F1 LC-G LC-G1 1-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 — — — 3.0% 2-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 — 4.0% — 4.0% 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 — 5.0% — 3.0% 2-Ph—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 — 4.0% — — 3-Ph—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 — 5.0% — — 3-Cy-Cy-2 22.0% 22.0% 22.0% 22.0% 3-Cy-Cy-4 10.0% 10.0% 9.0% 10.0% 3-Cy-Ph—O1 8.0% 9.0% 7.0% 6.0% 3-Cy-Ph5—O2 15.0% 13.0% 15.0% 15.0% 3-Cy-Cy-Ph5—O3 8.5% 6.0% — — 4-Cy-Cy-Ph5—O2 10.0% 7.0% 10.0% 10.0% 5-Cy-Cy-Ph5—O2 — — 5.0% 10.0% 2-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O2 5.0% 5.0% 9.0% 3.0% 3-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O2 10.0% 10.0% 9.0% 5.0% 3-Ph—Ph5—Ph-2 11.5% — 7.0% 6.0% 4-Ph—Ph5—Ph-2 — — 7.0% 3.0% Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Tni [° C.] 76 76 76 76 Δn 0.102 0.102 0.109 0.109 Δε −2.8 −2.9 −2.9 −2.9 γ.sub.1 [mPa .Math. s] 114 120 112 113 K.sub.33 [pN] 13.6 15.4 13.7 15.4 γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 [mPa .Math. s .Math. pN.sup.−1] 8.4 7.8 8.4 7.3

[0331] Each of the LC-F1 and LC-G1 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently small γ.sub.1 and large K.sub.33. Thus, in the LC-F1 and LC-G1, γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 that is the indicator of response speed was clearly smaller than the LC-F and LC-G as the comparative examples. In addition, the response speed thereof was measured, and the result of the measurement showed an improvement in the response speed in a similar degree.

[0332] The prepared liquid crystal compositions LC-F, LC-F1, LC-G, and LC-G1 were vacuum-injected into test cells, and then the test cells were subjected to measurement of VHRs before and after UV radiation. Each of the LC-F1 and LC-G1 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had an approximately similar or improved VHR after the UV radiation as compared with the LC-F and LC-G as the comparative examples, which showed that the improvement in the response speed did not have any adverse effect on the UV resistance of the liquid crystal materials. Accordingly, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently good nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (T.sub.ni), refractive index anisotropy (Δn), dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈), rotational viscosity (γ.sub.1), elastic constant (K.sub.33), and UV resistance; and the liquid crystal display device of, for example, a VA type that used such a liquid crystal composition had an excellent display quality. (Comparative Examples 8 and 9 and Examples 10 and 11)

[0333] Liquid crystal compositions LC-H (Comparative Example 8), LC-H1 (Example 10-1), LC-H2 (Example 10-2), LC-I (Comparative Example 9), and LC-I1 (Comparative Example 11) were prepared. Table 11 shows the constitution and physical properties of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 11 Com- Com- para- para- tive Exam- Exam- tive Exam- Exam- ple ple Exam- ple ple 8 10-1 10-2 ple 9 11 LC-H LC-H1 LC-H2 LC-I LC-I1 1-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 — 4.5% — — — 2-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 — 5.0% — — 4.0% 3-Ph-2-Ph—Ph5—O2 — — 3.0% — — 2-Ph—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 — — 3.0% — — 3-Ph—Ph-2-Ph5—O2 — — 4.0% — 4.0% 3-Cy-Cy-2 8.0% 8.0% 8.0% — — 3-Cy-Cy-4 7.5% 7.5% 7.5% — — 3-Cy-Cy-V 14.5% 15.0% 17.0% 28.0% 26.0% 3-Cy-Cy-V1 9.5% 9.5% 9.5% 9.5% 9.5% 3-Cy-Ph5—O2 7.0% 7.5% 4.5% 7.0% 10.5% 3-Ph—Ph5—O2 16.0% 14.0% 16.0% 16.5% 12.0% 3-Cy-Cy-Ph5—O1 — — — 7.0% 8.5% 3-Cy-Cy-Ph5—O2 10.0% 10.0% 6.5% 10.5% 12.0% 5-Cy-Cy-Ph5—O2 8.0% 7.5% 5.0% — — 3-Cy-Cy1-Ph5—O2 — — 4.0% — — 2-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O2 3.0% — 6.0% 8.0% 5.0% 3-Cy-Ph—Ph5—O2 8.5% 8.5% 6.0% 10.0% 5.0% 2-Ph—Ph1—Ph5—O4 — — — 3.5% 3.5% 3-Ph—Ph5—Ph-2 8.0% 3.0% — — — Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Tni [° C.] 75 76 76 76 76 Δn 0.109 0.109 0.109 0.109 0.109 Δε −2.9 −2.9 −2.9 −2.8 −2.9 γ.sub.1 [mPa .Math. s] 100 105 109 96 102 K.sub.33 [pN] 14.5 15.8 16.5 14.4 15.9 γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 [mPa .Math. s .Math. pN.sup.−1] 8.9 6.6 6.6 6.7 6.4

[0334] Each of the LC-H1, LC-H2, and LC-I1 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently small γ.sub.1 and large K.sub.33. Thus, in the LC-H1, LC-H2, and LC-I1, γ.sub.1/K.sub.33 that is the indicator of response speed was clearly smaller than the LC-H and LC-I as the comparative examples. In addition, the response speed thereof was measured, and the result of the measurement showed an improvement in the response speed in a similar degree.

[0335] The prepared liquid crystal compositions LC-H, LC-H1, LC-H2, LC-I, and LC-I1 were vacuum-injected into test cells, and then the test cells were subjected to measurement of VHRs before and after UV radiation. Each of the LC-H1 and LC-I1 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had an approximately similar or improved VHR after the UV radiation as compared with the LC-H and LC-I as the comparative examples, which showed that the improvement in the response speed did not have any adverse effect on the UV resistance of the liquid crystal materials.

[0336] Accordingly, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention had a sufficiently good nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (T.sub.ni), refractive index anisotropy (Δn), dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈), rotational viscosity (γ.sub.1), elastic constant (K.sub.33), and UV resistance; and the liquid crystal display device of, for instance, a VA type that used such a liquid crystal composition had an excellent display quality. (Examples 12-1 to 12-5)

[0337] Liquid crystal compositions MLC-F1 (Example 12-1), MLC-G1 (Example 12-2), MLC-H1 (Example 12-3), MLC-H2 (Example 12-4), and MLC-I1 (Example 12-5) were prepared. Table 12 shows the constitution of the liquid crystal compositions.

TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 12 Example Example Example Example Example 12-1 12-2 12-3 12-4 12-5 MLC-F1 MLC-G1 MLC-H1 MLC-H2 MLC-I1 Liquid crystal LC-F1 99.80% composition LC-G1 99.80% LC-H1 99.70% LC-H2 99.70% LC-I1 99.65% Polymerizable Formula 0.20% 0.20% 0.30% 0.30% 0.35% compound (P-b-1) Total 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

[0338] In each of the MLC-F1, MLC-G1, MLC-H1, MLC-H2, and MLC-I1 as the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, a proper pretilt angle ranging from 85 to 880 was generated in the test cell. Liquid crystal display devices of a PSVA or PSA type that used such liquid crystal compositions had an excellent display quality.

LIQUID CRYSTAL COMPOSITION AND LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY DEVICE USING THE SAME

Assignee

Inventors

Cpc classification

Classification Explorer

C09K19/542

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

G02F1/1341

PHYSICS

Classification Explorer

C09K19/16

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K2019/3027

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

G02F1/13

PHYSICS

Classification Explorer

C09K2019/301

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/322

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K2019/123

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/3066

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K2019/3009

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/20

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/32

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/38

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K2019/0448

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/14

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/42

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

G02F1/1309

PHYSICS

Classification Explorer

C09K2019/3004

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K2019/3016

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/18

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/12

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/24

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/30

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K2019/122

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer

C09K19/34

CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY

Classification Explorer