Direct π-extension of a conjugated carbon nanohoop using a zipper method†

Abstract

The π-extension of carbon nanorings towards ultrashort carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is a great challenge for synthetic chemists. Herein, we report the synthesis, characterization, and properties of a nanographene-embedded carbon nanoring (NECR) by a direct zipper method. In this approach, a long linear phenyl chain is fused onto the CPP backbone by a simple Scholl reaction, similar to zipping two pieces of fabric together. Its photophysical properties were studied by UV-vis and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The potential application of NECR in electron-transport devices were further investigated.