Novel Molecules and 2D Materials Derived from Highly Conjugated Molecules with Quinoidal pi-Systems Lacking Benzenoid Stabilization

Organic semiconductors are typically composed of highly conjugated, polycyclic pi-systems that include a plethora of 6-membered (benzene) rings, each of which imparts ‘aromatic’ (benzenoid) stability. While benzenoid stabilization lowers the energy, reduces the reactivity and increases the functional lifetime of the corresponding molecules and materials, these benefits come with a cost, namely reduced delocalization of pi-electron density (i.e., reduced electron mobility). We have begun imagining, designing, synthesizing and characterizing highly conjugated polycyclic molecules and 2D materials that are largely if not completely devoid of benzenoid stabilization. These molecules and 2D materials possess quinoidal pi-systems with highly interesting electronic properties. In order to stabilize said structures such that they can be prepared and studied, special substituent effects are employed. The presentation will include both experimental and theoretical (DFT) results. Characterizations of molecules and 2D materials will include optical and electronic measurements. Collaborations involving optoelectronic devices of all kinds including organic photovoltaics (OPVs), organic light emitting devices (OLEDs), organic semi-metals, sensors, UV-vis and NIR camouflage and dark matter detection are actively sought before, during and after the meeting.