Tetraethynylated Anthracene Synthesis via Sonogashira Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for synthesizing tetraalkynylated anthracenes are complex and time-consuming, and there is a lack of symmetric tetraalkynylated anthracene derivatives with desirable photophysical properties for applications in optoelectronic devices and sensors.

Innovation Solution

A novel single-step one-pot tetrafold Sonogashira coupling process is developed to synthesize symmetric tetraethynylated anthracenes, which exhibit solvatochromism and halochromism, and are crystallographically characterized, using specific catalysts and solvents to achieve efficient and robust synthesis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional multi-step synthesis methods are used for tetraalkynylated anthracenes, then the synthesis can be completed, but the process is complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynthesis speedVSAvoidsynthesis process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple synthesis steps into a single one-pot reaction. The tetrafold Sonogashira coupling reaction performs four alkynyl group introductions simultaneously in one reaction vessel, eliminating the need for separate steps and intermediate isolations. This merging of operations directly reduces both time and procedural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs pre-optimized catalyst systems and reaction conditions that enable all four coupling reactions to proceed simultaneously from the start. By preparing the reaction mixture with all necessary components (catalysts, ligands, base, solvent) beforehand, the synthesis proceeds efficiently without requiring sequential additions or intermediate workups.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If symmetric tetraalkynylated anthracene derivatives are synthesized, then desirable photophysical properties are achieved, but conventional methods do not produce symmetric structures efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephotophysical propertiesVSAvoidsynthesis ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent starts with symmetric 2,6-dibromoanthracene-9,10-dione as the substrate and uses identical alkynyl halide reagents at all four reactive positions. This symmetric design ensures that the final product possesses the desired symmetric structure with equivalent alkynyl groups, which is critical for achieving uniform photophysical properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes reaction parameters including catalyst composition (Pd/Cu system), ligand selection, base type, and solvent choice to enable high-yielding synthesis of symmetric tetraalkynylated products. By carefully controlling these parameters, the reaction achieves both high symmetry and excellent photophysical characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If tetrafold Sonogashira coupling is performed in a single step, then high yields and efficiency are achieved, but precise control of the reaction is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynthesis efficiencyVSAvoidreaction control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a dual catalyst system with palladium and copper, along with specific ligands and base, to mediate the tetrafold coupling reaction. These intermediaries facilitate the simultaneous occurrence of four coupling reactions by providing controlled reaction pathways, ensuring that all alkynyl groups are introduced efficiently with high selectivity and yield.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The process yields symmetric tetraethynylated anthracenes with excellent photophysical properties, including low band-gaps and high yields, suitable for applications in sensors and optoelectronic devices, demonstrating improved efficiency and tunable properties.

Implementation Method 1

A novel single-step one-pot tetrafold Sonogashira coupling process is developed to synthesize symmetric tetraethynylated anthracenes, which exhibit solvatochromism and halochromism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCatalysis: Catalysis

Implementation Method 2

symmetric tetraethynylated anthracenes, which exhibit solvatochromism and halochromism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolvatochromism: Photochromism

Implementation Method 3

symmetric tetraethynylated anthracenes, which exhibit solvatochromism and halochromism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHalochromism: Photochromism

Data Source

PatentUS20240270666A1Symmetric tetraalkynylated anthracenes and the process for preparing the same for sensing and optoelectronic applications
Publication Date: 2024.08.15 INDIAN INST OF TECH GUWAHATI
  • US20240270666A1 patent drawing
  • US20240270666A1 patent drawing
  • US20240270666A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to symmetric tetraalkynylated anthracene and more particularly tetraethynylated compounds with Formula III. The invention also provides a tetrafold sonogashira route towards these of symmetric tetraethynylated anthracene compounds with Formula III. The compounds of the present invention show good to excellent synthetic yield and find application in sensors and optoelectronic devices and show positive solvatochrism and halochromism. The sensor uses symmetric tetraalkynylated anthracene as channel material and the sensor has high sensitivity of 19.95 percent to 900 ppm and 0.86 percent to 50 ppm.