oligophenylene

Oligophenylene refers to a class of organic molecules composed of multiple phenyl rings linked together in a linear fashion. These molecules are considered to be short chains of poly(p-phenylene). The number of phenyl units, denoted by n, determines the specific oligophenylene. For instance, a molecule with two phenyl rings is a biphenyl, three is terphenyl, and so on. The phenyl rings are typically connected at the para positions, leading to extended conjugation along the molecular backbone.

Oligophenylenes exhibit interesting photophysical properties, including fluorescence, due to their conjugated electronic systems. The absorption and emission wavelengths are dependent on the length of the oligomer; longer chains generally absorb and emit light at longer wavelengths. Their rigid, linear structure and tunable electronic properties make them attractive for applications in organic electronics. They have been explored as building blocks for organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), organic field-effect transistors (OFETs), and other optoelectronic devices. Furthermore, their self-assembly behavior in solution and on surfaces is a subject of ongoing research, as it can influence their performance in various applications. The synthesis of oligophenylenes typically involves cross-coupling reactions, such as Suzuki or Stille coupling.