Modulating the assembly of N-benzylideneaniline by halogen bonding: crystal, cocrystal and liquid crystals

A halogen bond donor–acceptor N-benzylideneaniline self-assembles into an unusual head-to-head chain and a fishbone-like array by C–I⋯π and π⋯π interactions. Furthermore, it forms halogen-bonded cocrystal and liquid crystals with 4,4′-bipyridine or 4-alkoxystilbazole.