Tetrathiafulvalenes, Oligoacenenes, and Their Buckminsterfullerene Derivatives: The Brick and Mortar of Organic Electronics

1,1'-Biolympicenyl: A Stable Non-Kekulé Diradical with a Small Singlet and Triplet Energy Gap

Dimerization of delocalized polycyclic hydrocarbon radicals is a simple and versatile method to create diradicals with tailored electronic structures and accessible high-spin states. However, the synthesis is challenging, and the stability issue of the diradicals remains a concern. In this study, we present the synthesis of a stable non-Kekulé 1,1'-biolympicenyl diradical 1 using a protection-oxidation-protection strategy. Diradical 1 demonstrated exceptional stability, with a solution half-life time exceeding 3.5 years and a solid state thermal decomposition temperature above 300 °C. X-ray crystallographic analysis revealed its intersected molecular structure and tightly bound dimer configuration. A singlet ground state with a small singlet-triplet energy gap is consistently identified using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) in a rigid matrix, and the triplet state is thermally accessible at room temperature. The solution phase properties were systematically examined through EPR, absorption spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry, revealing a rotational motion in the slow-motion regime and multistage redox characteristics. This study presents an efficient synthetic and stabilization strategy for organic diradicals, enabling the development of various high-spin functional materials.

Accelerated Electron-Hole Separation at the Organic-Inorganic Anthracene/Janus MoSSe Interface

Organic light-absorbing materials with two-dimensional semiconductor layers as contact electrodes are promising for efficient and flexible low-cost solar cells. Considering anthracene as an absorber and a MoSSe Janus monolayer, we use non-adiabatic molecular dynamics to show that electron transfer from anthracene to MoSSe is faster on the Se side than the S side. The transfer from anthracene to MoS2 and MoSe2 monolayers takes intermediate times. As a rule, we find that a shorter adsorption distance produces a stronger donor-acceptor coupling. The smaller distance on the Se side is rationalized by the attractive force between the intrinsic dipole moment of the Janus structure and that of the molecule induced due to adsorption. Quantum coherence also affects the transfer time. The study provides detailed insights into adsorption of molecules on Janus structures and the resulting electronic and electron vibrational interactions. The results suggest that the dipole interaction plays an important role in the thermodynamic stability, alignment of electronic levels, and electron vibrational dynamics.

Hierarchical Modeling of the Nonlinear Optical Response of Composite Materials Based on Tetrathiafulvalene Derivatives

The presented work concerns computational investigations of the physical properties of composite materials based on polymer matrix and nonlinear optical (NLO) active chromophores. The structural, electronic, and optical properties of selected tetrathiafulvalene (TTF)-based chromophores have been calculated using quantum chemical methods. The polymer matrix changes the physical properties of the inserted chromophores influencing their optical parameters. To explain the mechanism of the NLO signal occurrence from the composites based on poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) matrix and TTF chromophores, their structures are modeled using the classical molecular dynamics. In consequence, the structural properties of the composites are discussed according to the NLO requirements. By developing the theoretical model based on a discrete multipole local field approach, the impact of polymer matrix on the optical properties of chromophores is explained.

The Journey for the Synthesis of Large Acenes

Acenes, the group of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with linearly fused benzene rings, possess distinctive electronic properties with potential applicability in material science. Hexacene was the largest acene obtained and characterized in the last century, followed by heptacene in 2006. Since then, a race for obtaining the largest acene resulted in the development of several members of this family as well as diverse innovative synthetic strategies, from solid-state chemistry to the promising on-surface chemistry. This last technique allows the obtention of large acenes, up to tridecacene, the largest acene so far. This review presents the different methodologies employed for the synthesis of acenes, highlighting the newest studies, to provide a much more thorough understanding of the essence of the electronic structure of this captivating group of organic compounds.

Charge-Transfer Complexes: Fundamentals and Advances in Catalysis, Sensing, and Optoelectronic Applications

Supramolecular assemblies, formed through electronic charge transfer between two or more entities, represent a rich class of compounds dubbed as charge-transfer complexes (CTCs). Their distinctive formation pathway, rooted in charge-transfer processes at the interface of CTC-forming components, results in the delocalization of electronic charge along molecular stacks, rendering CTCs intrinsic molecular conductors. Since the discovery of CTCs, intensive research has explored their unique properties including magnetism, conductivity, and superconductivity. Their more recently recognized semiconducting functionality has inspired recent developments in applications requiring organic semiconductors. In this context, CTCs offer a tuneable energy gap, unique charge-transport properties, tailorable physicochemical interactions, photoresponsiveness, and the potential for scalable manufacturing. Here, an updated viewpoint on CTCs is provided, presenting them as emerging organic semiconductors. To this end, their electronic and chemical properties alongside their synthesis methods are reviewed. The unique properties of CTCs that benefit various related applications in the realms of organic optoelectronics, catalysts, and gas sensors are discussed. Insights for future developments and existing limitations are described.

Porous Crystalline Materials Based on Tetrathiafulvalene and Its Analogues: Assembly, Charge Transfer, and Applications

ConspectusThe directed synthesis and functionalization of porous crystalline materials pose significant challenges for chemists. The synergistic integration of different functionalities within an ordered molecular material holds great significance for expanding its applications as functional materials. The presence of coordination bonds connected by inorganic and organic components in molecular materials can not only increase the structural diversity of materials but also modulate the electronic structure and band gap, which further regulates the physical and chemical properties of molecular materials. In fact, porous crystalline materials with coordination bonds, which inherit the merits of both organic and inorganic materials, already showcase their superior advantages in optical, electrical, and magnetic applications. In addition to the inorganic components that provide structural rigidity, organic ligands of various types serve as crucial connectors in the construction of functional porous crystalline materials. In addition, redox activity can endow organic linkers with electrochemical activity, thereby making them a perfect platform for the study of charge transfer with atom-resolved single-crystal structures, and they can additionally serve as stimuli-responsive sites in sensor devices and smart materials.In this Account, we introduce the synthesis, structural characteristics, and applications of porous crystalline materials based on the famous redox-active units, tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) and its analogues, by primarily focusing on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs). TTF, a sulfur-rich conjugated molecule with two reversible and easily accessible oxidation states (i.e., radical TTF•+ cation and TTF2+ dication), and its analogues boast special electrical characteristics that enable them to display switchable redox activity and stimuli-responsive properties. These inherent properties contribute to the enhancement of the optical, electrical, and magnetic characteristics of the resultant porous crystalline materials. Moreover, delving into the charge transfer phenomena, which is key for the electrochemical process within these materials, uncovers a myriad of potential functional applications. The Account is organized into five main sections that correspond to the different properties and applications of these materials: optical, electrical, and magnetic functionalities; energy storage and conversion; and catalysis. Each section provides detailed discussions of synthetic methods, structural characteristics, the physical and chemical properties, and the functional performances of highlighted examples. The Account also discusses future directions by emphasizing the exploration of novel organic units, the transformation between radical cation TTF•+ and dication TTF2+, and the integration of multifunctionalities within these frameworks to foster the development of smart materials for enhanced performance across diverse applications. Through this Account, we aim to highlight the massive potential of TTF and its analogues-based porous crystals in chemistry and material science.

An Appraisal for Providing Charge Transfer (CT) Through Synthetic Porous Frameworks for their Semiconductor Applications

In recent years, there has been considerable focus on the development of charge transfer (CT) complex formation as a means to modify the band gaps of organic materials. In particular, CT complexes alternate layers of aromatic molecules with donor (D) and acceptor (A) properties to provide inherent electrical conductivity. In particular, the synthetic porous frameworks as attractive D-A components have been extensively studied in recent years in comparison to existing D-A materials. Therefore, in this work, the synthetic porous frameworks are classified into conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and compare high-quality materials for CT in semiconductors. This work updates the overview of the above porous frameworks for CT, starting with their early history regarding their semiconductor applications, and lists CT concepts and selected key developments in their CT complexes and CT composites. In addition, the network formation methods and their functionalization are discussed to provide access to a variety of potential applications. Furthermore, several theoretical investigations, efficiency improvement techniques, and a discussion of the electrical conductivity of the porous frameworks are also highlighted. Finally, a perspective of synthetic porous framework studies on CT performance is provided along with some comparisons.

Modular Construction of Vinylene-Linked Covalent Organic Frameworks with Tunable Emission for Tumor Visualization

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with ordered π structures are very promising in porous light-emitting materials. However, most of these COFs are either poor in luminescence or lack of water-stability. Herein, a series of isostructural D-A vinylene-linked COFs were constructed based a new D2h symmetric linker 1,4-bis(4,6-dimethyl-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl)benzene (TMTA) with high crystallinity, comparative high surface area and excellent chemical/thermal stability. Impressively, their adsorption and luminescence wavelength vary with respect to the density of π-systems in the electron-donating group, which constitute the foundation for molecular engineering the luminescent properties of vinylene-linked COFs. The DFT calculations further established the relationship between the luminescence properties and the donor electronic structure. Moreover, one of representative COF named FZU-203 showed inspiring applications in bioimaging, which may further provide strategic guidance for the use of vinylene-linked COFs as fluorescent nanoprobes in non-invasive medical diagnosis and visualization therapy of tumors.

Synthesis, Photophysical, and Optical Limiting Properties of Twistacene-Functionalized Arenes

To realize the relationship of structure and property, four novel twistacene-functionalized arenes, namely, 1,4-bis(2,7-di-tert-butyl-9,14-bis(4-(tert-butyl)phenyl)dibenzo[de,qr]tetracen-11-yl)buta-1,3-diyne (4), 1,4-bis(3,5,10,12-tetra-tert-butyltribenzo[a,d,g]coronen-16-yl)buta-1,3-diyne (7), 1,4-bis(2,7-di-tert-butyl-9,14-bis(4-(tert-butyl)phenyl)dibenzo[de,qr]tetracen-10-yl)buta-1,3-diyne (10), 1,4-bis(3,5,10,12-tetra-tert-butyltribenzo[a,d,g]coronen-15-yl)buta-1,3-diyne (13), linked with butadiyne as π bridges have been strategically synthesized and characterized. The nonlinear optical properties are detailly examined in solution through the open-aperture Z-scan method in a comparative manner, indicating that molecules 4 and 7 exhibit better nonlinear optical responses than 10 and 13. Among them, 4 and 7 exhibit excellent optical limiting responses with limiting thresholds of 0.17 and 0.19 J/cm2, respectively, being superior to the state-of-the-art material C60. The ultrafast transient absorption test and DFT calculations suggest that the nonlinear absorption mechanisms belong to TPA-induced ESA. In addition, the effective percentage calculated from TD-DFT can provide a brief glance to evaluate the optical limiting performance.

Protic Processes in an Extended Pyrazinacene: The Case of Dihydrotetradecaazaheptacene

Pyrazinacenes are linearly fused heteroaromatic rings, with N atoms replacing all apical CH moieties. Component rings may exist in a reduced state, having NH groups instead of N, causing cross-conjugation. These compounds have interesting optical and electronic properties, including strong fluorescence in the near-infrared region and photocatalytic properties, leading to diverse possible applications in bio-imaging and organic synthesis, as well as obvious molecular electronic uses. In this study, we investigated the behavior of seven-ring pyrazinacene 2,3,11,12-tetraphenyl-7,16-dihydro-1,4,5,6,7,8,9,12,13,14,15,16,17,18-tetradecaazaheptacene (Ph4H2N14HEPT), with an emphasis on protic processes, including oxidation, tautomerism, deprotonation, and protonation, and the species resulting from those processes. We used computational methods to optimize the structures of the different species and generate/compare molecular orbital structures. The aromaticity of the species generated by the different processes was assessed using the nucleus-independent chemical shifts, and trends in the values were associated with the different transformations of the pyrazinacene core. The computational data were compared with experimental data obtained from synthetic samples of the molecule tBu8Ph4H2N14HEPT.

Organic Donor-Acceptor Complexes As Potential Semiconducting Materials

In this review article, the synthesis, characterization and physico-chemical properties of the organic donor-acceptor complexes are highlighted and a special emphasis has been placed on developing them as semiconducting materials. The electron-rich molecules, i. e., donors have been broadly grouped in three categories, namely polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, nitrogen heterocycles and sulphur containing aromatic donors. The reactions of these classes of the donors with the acceptors, namely tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), tetracyanoethylene (TCNE), tetracyanobenzene (TCNB), benzoquinone, pyromellitic dianhydride and pyromellitic diimides, fullerenes, phenazine, benzothiadiazole, naphthalimide, DMAD, maleic anhydride, viologens and naphthalene diimide are described. The potential applications of the resulting DA complexes for physico-electronic purposes are also included. The theoretical investigation of many of these products with a view to rationalise their observed physico-chemical properties is also discussed.

Molecular and Supramolecular Materials: From Light-Harvesting to Quantum Information Science and Technology

The past two decades have witnessed immense advances in quantum information technology (QIT), benefited by advances in physics, chemistry, biology, and materials science and engineering. It is intriguing to consider whether these diverse molecular and supramolecular structures and materials, partially inspired by quantum effects as observed in sophisticated biological systems such as light-harvesting complexes in photosynthesis and the magnetic compass of migratory birds, might play a role in future QIT. If so, how? Herein, we review materials and specify the relationship between structures and quantum properties, and we identify the challenges and limitations that have restricted the intersection of QIT and chemical materials. Examples are broken down into two categories: materials for quantum sensing where nonclassical function is observed on the molecular scale and systems where nonclassical phenomena are present due to intermolecular interactions. We discuss challenges for materials chemistry and make comparisons to related systems found in nature. We conclude that if chemical materials become relevant for QIT, they will enable quite new kinds of properties and functions.

Gas Phase Ionization Energy of Heptacene

The ionization energy is a fundamental property that is relevant to charge transport in organic semiconductors. We report adiabatic ionization energies (AIEs) of heptacene at 6.21 and 7.20 eV for the X̃+B2g and Ã+Au states, respectively, as the next larger member of the acene series using mass- and isomer-selective double imaging photoelectron photoion coincidence spectroscopy. The X̃+ state energy decreases monotonically with an increase in size within the homologous series of acenes and approaches an asymptotic limit [AIE(polyacene) = 5.94 ± 0.06 eV] based on a fit with an exponential decay function. As byproducts of heptacene formation from cycloreversion of diheptacenes, 5,18-, 7,16-, and 6,17-dihydroheptacene can be detected, and their AIE is similar to that of their largest acene subunit (anthracene and tetracene, respectively), in very good agreement with computational treatments.

Self-Assembly of Functionalized Twistarenes into Supramolecular Assemblies with Chiroptical Property and Photoconductive Behavior

A pair of novel chiral 1-phenylethylamine-modified twistarenes (4 and 11; compound 4 = 9,14-di-tert-butyl-7,16-diphenyl-2-(1-phenylethyl)-1H-benzo[8',9']triphenyleno[2',3':6,7]fluoreno[2,1,9-def]isoquinoline-1,3(2H)-dione) have been synthesized and characterized, and how the solvent component affects the chirality transfer of their self-assembled processes is investigated in mixtures with THF and H2O. The ordered assembly of 11 exhibits circular dichroism response. In addition, both 11a and 11b display positive photoconducting behavior.

Eco-friendly K-10 Clay-Mediated [3 + 3] Spiroannulation of Morita-Baylis-Hillman Adduct of Isatin with Anthracene: Synthesis of Green Fluorophore Compounds

An easy and simple spiroannulation of the Morita-Baylis-Hillman adduct of isatin derivatives with anthracene was achieved in moderate-to-good yields (37-75%). The spiroderivatives synthesized in this work exhibited green fluorescence properties. The reaction occurred in metal-free eco-friendly K-10 clay-mediated conditions. The final products have multiple structural features such as 3-spirooxindole, fluorophoric anthracene, phenanthracene, phenalene, and perylene cores.

Biphenylene-containing polycyclic conjugated compounds

There has been a growing emphasis on the synthesis of polycyclic conjugated compounds, driven by their distinct structural characteristics that make them valuable candidates for use in cutting-edge technologies. In particular, acenes, a subgroup of polycyclic aromatic compounds, are sought-after synthetic targets due to their remarkable optoelectronic properties which stem from their π-conjugation and planar structure. Despite all these promising characteristics, acenes exhibit significant stability problems when their conjugation enhances. Various approaches have been developed to address this stability concern. Among these strategies, one involves the incorporation of the biphenylene unit into acene frameworks, limiting the electron delocalization through the antiaromatic four-membered ring. This review gives a brief overview of the methods used in the synthesis of biphenylenes and summarizes the recent studies on biphenylene-containing polycyclic conjugated compounds, elucidating their synthesis, and distinct optoelectronic properties.

DFT investigations of phenyldithiafulvene dimers at different oxidation states

Oxidative dimerization of aryl-substituted dithiafulvenes (Ar-DTFs) presents an efficient C-C bond forming method for the preparation of diverse redox-active π-conjugated molecules and conductive polymers. Previous experimental data indicated a reaction pathway in which direct combination of two Ar-DTF radical cations is a key step. However, mechanistic details about how Ar-DTF dimers are formed under different oxidation states have not yet been clearly established prior to this work. The assembly of two Ar-DTF molecules generates a vast conformational and configurational landscape, which is quite complex but fundamentally important for understanding the dimerization mechanism. To cast a deep insight into this aspect, we have performed density functional theory (DFT) calculations at the M06-2X/Def2-SVP level of theory to thoroughly investigate the potential energy surfaces (PESs) of various dimers of a phenyl-substituted dithiafulvene (Ph-DTF) in the mixed-valence radical cation and dication states. Key stationary points in these PESs, including minimum-energy conformers (π-dimers and σ-dimers) as well as the transition states connected to them, were examined and compared. We have also calculated the binding energies of these dimers to evaluate the energetic driving forces for their formation. Based on our computational results, the roles that various Ph-DTF dimers play in different pathways of oxidative dimerization have been clarified.

Effects of Metal Ions and Substituents on HOMO-LUMO Gap Evident from UV-Visible and Fluorescence Spectra of Anthracene Derivatives

Controlled intake of complex metal cations and anions in the human body and other biological systems is essential for the health and well-being of the environment. Anthracene and anthracene derivatives are the most widely used sensors for this purpose. Because of their convenience, better detection and results are preferred over colorimetric sensors, which offer better color detection by the naked eye. This review article will present different designs of chemosensors using fluorescence and UV-visible spectroscopy to determine different ions. Density functional theory and Austin model 1 are widely used for theoretical and computational studies of the energy levels of molecules. The Indo/Cis method is used to calculate the geometries of anthracene oligomers. A novel anthracene-based fluorescent probe containing the benzothiazole group BFA was highly sensitive and selective toward trivalent cations (Cr3+ and Fe3+). This sensor is not sensitive to other ions, including Aluminum trivalent ions. (N- ((anthracen-9-yl) methyl)-N-(pyridin-2-yl) pyridin-2-amine) has been designed to detect zinc and copper. Click chemistry using photodimerization can be used to form cellulose nanoparticles. TEMPO-mediated hypohalite oxidation converts hydroxyl groups to carboxylic groups. Amide linkage formation between amine and carboxylic acid was followed by the installation of an alkyne group. Copper (I)-catalyzed Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition (CuAAC) was used to produce highly photoresponsive and fluorescent cellulose nanoparticles by using coumarin, anthracene, and generated nanomaterials. The effects of naphthalene and phenanthrene on the spectra of anthracene were determined in a dilute solution. Temperature and solvent effects introduce different changes in fluorescence, emission, and absorption bands, leading to some changes in the configuration of anthracene. The solvent and temperature effects on variations of emission maxima of exciplex anthracene-diethylaniline (DEA) are also discussed.

Double boron-oxygen-fused polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: skeletal editing and applications as organic optoelectronic materials

An efficient one-pot strategy for the facile synthesis of double boron-oxygen-fused polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (dBO-PAHs) with high regioselectivity and efficient skeletal editing is developed. The boron-oxygen-fused rings exhibit low aromaticity, endowing the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with high chemical and thermal stabilities. The incorporation of the boron-oxygen units enables the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons to show single-component, low-temperature ultralong afterglow of up to 20 s. Moreover, the boron-oxygen-fused polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons can also serve as ideal n-type host materials for high-brightness and high-efficiency deep-blue OLEDs; compared to single host, devices using boron-oxygen-fused polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons-based co-hosts exhibit dramatically brightness and efficiency enhancements with significantly reduced efficiency roll-offs; device 9 demonstrates a high color-purity (Commission International de l'Eclairage CIEy = 0.104), and also achieves a record-high external quantum efficiency (28.0%) among Pt(II)-based deep-blue OLEDs with Commission International de l'Eclairage CIEy < 0.20; device 10 achieves a maximum brightnessof 27219 cd/m2 with a peak external quantum efficiency of 27.8%, which representes the record-high maximum brightness among Pt(II)-based deep-blue OLEDs. This work demonstrates the great potential of the double boron-oxygen-fused polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as ultralong afterglow and n-type host materials in optoelectronic applications.

Aqueous Redox Flow Batteries: Small Organic Molecules for the Positive Electrolyte Species

There are a number of critical requirements for electrolytes in aqueous redox flow batteries. This paper reviews organic molecules that have been used as the redox-active electrolyte for the positive cell reaction in aqueous redox flow batteries. These organic compounds are centred around different organic redox-active moieties such as the aminoxyl radical (TEMPO and N-hydroxyphthalimide), carbonyl (quinones and biphenols), amine (e. g., indigo carmine), ether and thioether (e. g., thianthrene) groups. We consider the key metrics that can be used to assess their performance: redox potential, operating pH, solubility, redox kinetics, diffusivity, stability, and cost. We develop a new figure of merit - the theoretical intrinsic power density - which combines the first four of the aforementioned metrics to allow ranking of different redox couples on just one side of the battery. The organic electrolytes show theoretical intrinsic power densities which are 2-100 times larger than that of the VO2+ /VO2 + couple, with TEMPO-derivatives showing the highest performance. Finally, we survey organic positive electrolytes in the literature on the basis of their redox-active moieties and the aforementioned figure of merit.

Fused Indacene Dimers

Polycyclic hydrocarbons consisting of two or more directly fused antiaromatic subunits are rare due to their high reactivity. However, it is important to understand how the interactions between the antiaromatic subunits influence the electronic properties of the fused structure. Herein, we present the synthesis of two fused indacene dimer isomers: s-indaceno[2,1-a]-s-indacene (s-ID) and as-indaceno[3,2-b]-as-indacene (as-ID), containing two fused antiaromatic s-indacene or as-indacene units, respectively. Their structures were confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. 1 H NMR/ESR measurements and DFT calculations revealed that both s-ID and as-ID have an open-shell singlet ground state. However, while localized antiaromaticity was observed in s-ID, as-ID showed weak global aromaticity. Moreover, as-ID exhibited a larger diradical character and a smaller singlet-triplet gap than s-ID. All the differences can be attributed to their distinct quinoidal substructures.

Preparation of Hybrid Films Based in Aluminum 8-Hydroxyquinoline as Organic Semiconductor for Photoconductor Applications

In the present work, we have investigated an organic semiconductor based on tris(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum (AlQ3) doped with tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), which can be used as an organic photoconductor. DFT calculations were carried out to optimize the structure of semiconductor species and to obtain related constants in order to compare experimental and theoretical results. Subsequently, AlQ3-TCNQ films with polypyrrole (Ppy) matrix were fabricated, and they were morphologically and mechanically characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Atomic Force Microscopy techniques. The maximum stress for the film is 8.66 MPa, and the Knoop hardness is 0.0311. The optical behavior of the film was also analyzed, and the optical properties were found to exhibit two indirect transitions at 2.58 and 3.06 eV. Additionally, photoluminescence measurements were carried out and the film showed an intense visible emission in the visible region. Finally, a photoconductor was fabricated and electrically characterized. Applying a cubic spline approximation to fit cubic polynomials to the J-V curves, the ohmic to SCLC transition voltage VON and the trap-filled-limit voltage VTFL for the device were obtained. Then, the free carrier density and trap density for the device were approximated to n0=4.4586×10191m3 and Nt=3.1333×10311m3, respectively.

The Spontaneous Electron-Mediated Redox Processes on Sprayed Water Microdroplets

Water is considered as an inert environment for the dispersion of many chemical systems. However, by simply spraying bulk water into microsized droplets, the water microdroplets have been shown to possess a large plethora of unique properties, including the ability to accelerate chemical reactions by several orders of magnitude compared to the same reactions in bulk water, and/or to trigger spontaneous reactions that cannot occur in bulk water. A high electric field (∼10⁹ V/m) at the air-water interface of microdroplets has been postulated to be the probable cause of the unique chemistries. This high field can even oxidize electrons out of hydroxide ions or other closed-shell molecules dissolved in water, forming radicals and electrons. Subsequently, the electrons can trigger further reduction processes. In this Perspective, by showing a large number of such electron-mediated redox reactions, and by studying the kinetics of these reactions, we opine that the redox reactions on sprayed water microdroplets are essentially processes using electrons as the charge carriers. The potential impacts of the redox capability of microdroplets are also discussed in a larger context of synthetic chemistry and atmospheric chemistry.

Functionalized Fullerene for Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Variants

As virus outbreaks continue to pose a challenge, a nonspecific viral inhibitor can provide significant benefits, especially against respiratory viruses. Polyglycerol sulfates recently emerge as promising agents that mediate interactions between cells and viruses through electrostatics, leading to virus inhibition. Similarly, hydrophobic C₆₀ fullerene can prevent virus infection via interactions with hydrophobic cavities of surface proteins. Here, two strategies are combined to inhibit infection of SARS-CoV-2 variants in vitro. Effective inhibitory concentrations in the millimolar range highlight the significance of bare fullerene's hydrophobic moiety and electrostatic interactions of polysulfates with surface proteins of SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, microscale thermophoresis measurements support that fullerene linear polyglycerol sulfates interact with the SARS-CoV-2 virus via its spike protein, and highlight importance of electrostatic interactions within it. All-atom molecular dynamics simulations reveal that the fullerene binding site is situated close to the receptor binding domain, within 4 nm of polyglycerol sulfate binding sites, feasibly allowing both portions of the material to interact simultaneously.

Diazadiboraacenes: Synthesis, Spectroscopy and Computations

The incorporation of heteroatoms into hydrocarbon compounds greatly expands the chemical space of molecular materials. In this context, B-N doping takes a center stage due to its isosterism with a C=C-bond. Herein, we present a new and modular synthetic concept to access novel diazadiborabenzo[b]triphenylenes 7 a-h using the B-N doped biradical 16 as intermediate. Characterization of the photophysical properties revealed the emission spectra of the diazadibora benzo[b]triphenylenes 7 a-h can conveniently be tuned by small changes of the substitution on the boron-atom. All of the diazadibora compounds show a short life-time phosphorescence. Additionally, we were able to rationalize the excited-state relaxation of the diazadiboraacene 7 a via intersystem crossing by quantum chemical calculations. The new synthetic strategy provides an elegant route to various novel B-N doped acenes with great potential for applications in molecular materials.

Multistep Transformation from Amorphous and Nonporous Fullerenols to Highly Crystalline Microporous Materials

The structural and morphological properties of fullerenols upon exposure to heat treatment have yet to be understood. Herein, the temperature-driven structural and morphological evolutions of fullerenols C₆₀ (OH) and C₇₀ (OH) were investigated. In situ spectroscopic techniques, such as variable-temperature X-ray diffraction and coupled thermogravimetric Fourier-transform infrared analysis, were used to elucidate the structural transformation mechanism of fullerenols. Both fullerenols underwent four-step structural transformation upon heating and cooling, including amorphous-to-crystalline transition, thermal expansion, structural compression, and new crystal formation. Compared to the initially nonporous amorphous fullerenol, the crystalline product exhibited microporosity with a surface area of 114 m²  g^-1 and demonstrated CO₂ sorption capability. These findings show the potential of fullerene derivatives as adsorbents.

Bis(Vinylenedithio)-Tetrathiafulvalene-Based Coordination Networks

Novel coordination polymers embedding electroactive moieties present a high interest in the development of porous conducting materials. While tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) based metal-organic frameworks were reported to yield through-space conducting frameworks, the use of S-enriched scaffolds remains elusive in this field. Herein is reported the employment of bis(vinylenedithio)-tetrathiafulvalene (BVDT-TTF) functionalized with pyridine coordinating moieties in coordination polymers. Its combination with various transition metals yielded four isostructural networks, whose conductivity increased upon chemical oxidation with iodine. The oxidation was confirmed in a single-crystal to single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiment for the Cd(II) coordination polymer. Raman spectroscopy measurements and DFT calculations confirmed the oxidation state of the bulk materials, and band structure calculations assessed the ground state as an electronically localized antiferromagnetic state, while the conduction occurs in a 2D manner. These results are shedding light to comprehend how to improve through-space conductivity thanks to sulfur enriched ligands.

Limited Stability of 6,13-Bis(tri(isopropyl)silylethynyl)pentacene upon One-Electron Oxidation: Electrochemically Induced (4 + 2) Cycloaddition between an Alkynyl-Substituted Acene and Its Radical Cation

6,13-Bis(tri(isopropyl)silylethynyl)pentacene, a particularly stable acene derivative important for (opto)electronic materials, turns reactive upon electrochemical one-electron oxidation. One of the typically stabilizing tri(isopropyl)silylethynyl substituents becomes involved in a (4 + 2) cycloaddition after redox umpolung. The electrosynthetic dimerization of the title compound provides easy access under mild conditions to a complex scaffold, which includes an intact pentacene, an anthracene, and a phenylene unit, all electronically separated. The product's electrochemical redox properties are explained by superimposed cyclic voltammetric features of the pentacene and the anthracene moieties. The reaction path is analyzed on the basis of electroanalytical and ESR data, and an oxidation-cycloaddition-reduction sequence is elaborated. The contribution of homogeneous electron transfers (electron transfer chain reaction) is negligible, in accordance with the relative formal redox potentials of the starting compound and the product. Quantum chemical calculations indicate that the central cycloaddition should be described as a two-step process with a distonic radical cation intermediate. We suggest an extended notation to define the contribution of the components with respect to electron count in the two-step cycloaddition, [3 + 1, 1 + 1].

High-throughput property-driven generative design of functional organic molecules

The design of molecules and materials with tailored properties is challenging, as candidate molecules must satisfy multiple competing requirements that are often difficult to measure or compute. While molecular structures produced through generative deep learning will satisfy these patterns, they often only possess specific target properties by chance and not by design, which makes molecular discovery via this route inefficient. In this work, we predict molecules with (Pareto-)optimal properties by combining a generative deep learning model that predicts three-dimensional conformations of molecules with a supervised deep learning model that takes these as inputs and predicts their electronic structure. Optimization of (multiple) molecular properties is achieved by screening newly generated molecules for desirable electronic properties and reusing hit molecules to retrain the generative model with a bias. The approach is demonstrated to find optimal molecules for organic electronics applications. Our method is generally applicable and eliminates the need for quantum chemical calculations during predictions, making it suitable for high-throughput screening in materials and catalyst design.

Linear π-conjugated polycyclic compounds consisting of four-, five-, and six-membered rings: benzo[1'',2'':3,4;4'',5'':3',4']bis(cyclobuta[1,2-c]thiophene)

Linear π-conjugated polycyclic compounds, BBCTs, containing linearly annulated 5-, 4-, 6-, 4-, and 5-membered rings were produced via copper-mediated double intramolecular coupling reactions. The absorption spectra and electrochemical results confirmed their moderate optical energy gaps and high HOMO energy levels, respectively. In a crystalline state, the BBCT molecules adopt a herringbone structure, while the methylated molecules form slipped one-dimensional columns. The local and global aromaticity of the new polycyclic compounds is discussed based on the experimental results and theoretical predictions. The present fundamental findings are useful for the further design and synthesis of novel π-conjugated polycyclic compounds containing four-membered rings with potential applications in electronic materials.

Synthesis, Post-Functionalization and Properties of Diphosphapentaarenes

Linearly-fused polyarenes are an important class of compounds with high relevance in materials science. While modifying the shape and size represents a common means to fine-tune their properties, the precise placement of heteroatoms is a strategy that is receiving an increasing deal of attention to overcome the intrinsic limitations of all-carbon structures. Thus, linearly-fused diphosphaarenes recently emerged as a novel family of molecules with striking optoelectronic properties and outstanding stability. However, the properties of diphosphaarenes are far from being benchmarked. Herein, we report the synthesis, phosphorus post-functionalization and properties of new diphosphapentaarene derivatives. We describe their synthetic limitations and unveil their potential for optoelectronic applications.

Supramolecular Coordination Cages for Artificial Photosynthesis and Synthetic Photocatalysis

Because sunlight is the most abundant energy source on earth, it has huge potential for practical applications ranging from sustainable energy supply to light driven chemistry. From a chemical perspective, excited states generated by light make thermodynamically uphill reactions possible, which forms the basis for energy storage into fuels. In addition, with light, open-shell species can be generated which open up new reaction pathways in organic synthesis. Crucial are photosensitizers, which absorb light and transfer energy to substrates by various mechanisms, processes that highly depend on the distance between the molecules involved. Supramolecular coordination cages are well studied and synthetically accessible reaction vessels with single cavities for guest binding, ensuring close proximity of different components. Due to high modularity of their size, shape, and the nature of metal centers and ligands, cages are ideal platforms to exploit preorganization in photocatalysis. Herein we focus on the application of supramolecular cages for photocatalysis in artificial photosynthesis and in organic photo(redox) catalysis. Finally, a brief overview of immobilization strategies for supramolecular cages provides tools for implementing cages into devices. This review provides inspiration for future design of photocatalytic supramolecular host-guest systems and their application in producing solar fuels and complex organic molecules.

Gauging Radical Stabilization with Carbenes

Carbenes, including N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands, are used extensively to stabilize open-shell transition metal complexes and organic radicals. Yet, it remains unknown, which carbene stabilizes a radical well and, thus, how to design radical-stabilizing C-donor ligands. With the large variety of C-donor ligands experimentally investigated and their electronic properties established, we report herein their radical-stabilizing effect. We show that radical stabilization can be understood by a captodative frontier orbital description involving π-donation to- and π-donation from the carbenes. This picture sheds a new perspective on NHC chemistry, where π-donor effects usually are assumed to be negligible. Further, it allows for the intuitive prediction of the thermodynamic stability of covalent radicals of main group- and transition metal carbene complexes, and the quantification of redox non-innocence.

Tetra-Coordinated Boron-Functionalized Phenanthroimidazole-Based Zinc Salen as a Photocatalyst for the Cycloaddition of CO2 and Epoxides

A unique B-N coordinated phenanthroimidazole-based zinc salen was synthesized. The zinc salen thus synthesized acts as a photocatalyst for the cycloaddition of carbon dioxide with terminal epoxides under ambient conditions. DFT study of the cycloaddition of carbon dioxide with terminal epoxide indicates the preference of the reaction pathway when photocatalyzed by zinc salen. We anticipate that this strategy will help to design new photocatalysts for CO₂ fixation.

π-Extended S-Heterocyclic Naphthoquinodimethane with Dual Diradical and Dipolar Character

The 2,6-naphthoquinodimethane (2,6-NQDM) containing S-heterocyclic molecule 6-S was synthesized, and its dual open-shell diradical and dipolar characters were revealed via both experimental and theoretical studies. Unlike the shorter p-quinodimethane (p-QDM)-containing analogue 5-S, which possesses a closed-shell ground state (y₀ = 0%) with small dipolar character, 6-S possesses enhanced dipolar character with a singlet diradical ground state (y₀ = 23.3%) and a thermally accessible triplet excited state (ΔE_ST = -4.13 kcal/mol). Despite this, it displays good stability (t_1/2 = 41days) under ambient air and light conditions due to its distinctive dipolar character and kinetic blocking of reactive sites.

Single-molecule nano-optoelectronics: insights from physics

Single-molecule optoelectronic devices promise a potential solution for miniaturization and functionalization of silicon-based microelectronic circuits in the future. For decades of its fast development, this field has made significant progress in the synthesis of optoelectronic materials, the fabrication of single-molecule devices and the realization of optoelectronic functions. On the other hand, single-molecule optoelectronic devices offer a reliable platform to investigate the intrinsic physical phenomena and regulation rules of matters at the single-molecule level. To further realize and regulate the optoelectronic functions toward practical applications, it is necessary to clarify the intrinsic physical mechanisms of single-molecule optoelectronic nanodevices. Here, we provide a timely review to survey the physical phenomena and laws involved in single-molecule optoelectronic materials and devices, including charge effects, spin effects, exciton effects, vibronic effects, structural and orbital effects. In particular, we will systematically summarize the basics of molecular optoelectronic materials, and the physical effects and manipulations of single-molecule optoelectronic nanodevices. In addition, fundamentals of single-molecule electronics, which are basic of single-molecule optoelectronics, can also be found in this review. At last, we tend to focus the discussion on the opportunities and challenges arising in the field of single-molecule optoelectronics, and propose further potential breakthroughs.

Photo-thermo-induced room-temperature phosphorescence through solid-state molecular motion

The development of smart-responsive materials, in particular those with non-invasive, rapid responsive phosphorescence, is highly desirable but has rarely been described. Herein, we designed and prepared a series of molecular rotors containing a triazine core and three bromobiphenyl units: o-Br-TRZ, m-Br-TRZ, and p-Br-TRZ. The bromine and triazine moieties serve as room temperature phosphorescence-active units, and the bromobiphenyl units serve as rotors to drive intramolecular rotation. When irradiated with strong ultraviolet photoirradiation, intramolecular rotations of o-Br-TRZ, m-Br-TRZ, and p-Br-TRZ increase, successively resulting in a photothermal effect via molecular motions. Impressively, the photothermal temperature attained by p-Br-TRZ is as high as 102 °C, and synchronously triggers its phosphorescence due to the ordered molecular arrangement after molecular motion. The thermal effect is expected to be important for triggering efficient phosphorescence, and the photon input for providing a precise and non-invasive stimulus. Such sequential photo-thermo-phosphorescence conversion is anticipated to unlock a new stimulus-responsive phosphorescence material without chemicals invasion.

The development of non-invasive, rapid responsive phosphorescence is highly desirable but has rarely been described. Herein, the authors designed and prepare a series of molecular rotors containing a room temperature phosphorescence active triazine core and three bromobiphenyl units acting as rotors and demonstrate light stimulus triggered phosphorescence.

Semiconductive 2D arrays of pancake-bonded oligomers of partially charged TCNQ radicals

Multicentre two-electron (mc/2e or 'pancake bonding') bonding between 7,7,8,8-tetra-cyano-quinodi-methane (TCNQ) radical anions was studied on its 14 novel salts with planar organic cations. The formal charges of the TCNQδ- moieties are -1/2 and -2/3, and they form mc/2e bonded dimers, trimers and tetramers which are further stacked into extended arrays. Multicentre bonding within these oligomers is characterized by short interplanar separations of 2.9-3.2 Å; distances between the oligomers are larger, typically >3.3 Å. The stacks are laterally connected by C-H⋯N hydrogen bonding, forming 2D arrays. The nature of mc/2e bonding is characterized by structural, magnetic and electrical data. The compounds are found to be semiconductors, and high conductivity [10-2 (Ω cm)-1] correlates with short interplanar distances between pancake-bonded oligomers.