Pioneering technique for synthesizing intricate chemical compounds

In a significant breakthrough for the field of organic chemistry, researchers at the Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy at Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) have developed a new process for producing hexaarylbenzene molecules on a large scale. This new process, published in the prestigious journal Angewandte Chemie with DOI: 10.1002/anie.202104437, enables the synthesis of asymmetrical hexaarylbenzene molecules, a feat that was previously unachievable or only possible in small quantities.

The new process is a four-step domino reaction that does not require the use of toxic metals, making it a safer and more environmentally friendly method. The initial compound for the synthesis of asymmetrical hexaarylbenzene is also produced without the aid of toxic metals.

The researchers used specific aromatic rings such as phenyl, biphenyl, and naphthyl groups in their new method. This allows for the production of asymmetrical hexaarylbenzene molecules with six different aromatic rings, providing a wide range of possibilities for further research and application.

Hexaarylbenzene molecules are important functional materials, and the newly developed asymmetrical hexaarylbenzene molecules may be useful for developing innovative liquid crystal materials or organic electronics. They could also play a significant role in the development of organic electronics, a rapidly growing field with potential applications in flexible displays, solar cells, and sensors.

Controls are carried out throughout the procedure to monitor which atom groups replace the hydrogen atoms of the benzene, ensuring the production of high-quality, consistent results.

This breakthrough is a testament to the ongoing research and innovation at FAU, contributing to the advancement of organic chemistry and its practical applications. The large-scale production of asymmetrical hexaarylbenzene molecules opens up new possibilities for further research and development, promising exciting advancements in the field of organic electronics and beyond.