The foci of this research are the preparation and characterization of a variety of linear perphenyl acenes and numerous macrocyclic and branched polyphenyl aromatics. The key steps in the syntheses of the former class are Diels-Alder reactions of polyphenyl arynes and dienes. Syntheses of the latter compounds will depend heavily on the reactions of aromatic alkynes and polyphenyl arynes with an array of polyphenylcyclopentadienones. The ease of synthesis, ease of derivatization, well-defined conformation, great stability and excellent solubility properties make the compounds excellent candidates for study and application. Applications for use in electrochemical, photochemical and host-guest purposes will be probed. With this renewal award, the Synthetic Organic Program is supporting the research of Dr. Robert A. Pascal of the Department of Chemistry at Princeton University. Professor Pascal will focus his work on the preparation and characterization of very large polyphenyl aromatic compounds. These compounds have potential for having great value in electrochemical, photochemical and host-guest applications.
