An optically active lactic acid derivative represented by the following formula (Ia) or (Ib): ##STR1## wherein R is a linear, branched or cyclic saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon group having 1-16 carbon atoms, R.sup.1 is an alkyl group having 4-16 carbon atoms, m and n are respectively 1 or 2, k is 0 or 1, and C* is an asymmetric carbon atom. A liquid crystal composition containing the lactic acid derivative and a liquid crystal device using the liquid crystal composition are also disclosed.
以下是光学活性的
乳酸衍
生物的
化学式(Ia)或(Ib):##STR1## 其中,R是具有1-16个碳原子的线性、分支或环状饱和或不饱和的烃基,R.sup.1是具有4-16个碳原子的烷基,m和n分别为1或2,k为0或1,C*是一个不对称的碳原子。还公开了含有
乳酸衍
生物的液晶组合物和使用该液晶组合物的液晶器件。