Synthesis of a new polypyridinic highly conjugated ligand with electron-acceptor properties

A new acceptor polypyridinic ligand functionalized with a quinone fragment is reported. The ligand, dipyrido[3,2-a:2′,3′-c]-benzo[3,4]-phenazine-11,16-quinone, Nqphen, was synthesized by condensation of 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione and 2,3-diamino-1,4-naphthoquinone. The syntheses of two rhenium complexes with this ligand are also reported.