Synthesis and characterization of new linear π-conjugated molecules containing bis(ethynylpyridine) units with a benzothiadiazole spacer

Three novel 4,7-bis(n-pyridylethynyl)-2,1,3-benzothiadiazoles (n = 2, 3, and 4) were synthesized by using the Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction of 4,7-dibromo-2,1,3-benzothiadiazole with the corresponding ethynylpyridines in the presence of a Pd(II) catalyst. The viologen analogues were also prepared by methylation of pyridyl nitrogen atoms. X-ray structure analysis of these compounds revealed the linear molecular structures with unusual columnar crystal structures. Insertion of a benzothiadiazole moiety into the acetylene-pyridine skeleton brings about a large increase in electron affinity and the bispyridyl compounds obtained here show high fluorescence quantum yields.