Synthesis and electronic properties of bis-styryl substituted trimeric aryleneethynylenes. Comparison of cruciforms with iso-cruciforms

Four 1,2-distyryl-4,5-bis(phenylethynyl)benzenes are described. A two step synthesis, a combination of Horner and Sonogashira methods is utilized. The targets and their para isomers were examined by UV–vis and fluorescence spectroscopies as well as by cyclic voltammetry. They show solvatochromic behavior and are easily oxidized if the styryl units carry dialkylamino substitutents. Single crystal structures of three derivatives have been obtained.