C3-symmetric aromatic triimides as useful building blocks for supramolecular chemistry and advanced materials

Abstract

C ₃-symmetric aromatic triimides (ATIs) represent an interesting class of electron-deficient molecular backbones, characterized by π-conjugated aromatic cores symmetrically substituted with three imide groups. Their unique structural and electronic features, combined with exceptional stability and straightforward N-functionalization at three imide sites, make ATIs promising as versatile building blocks for applications in supramolecular chemistry and materials science. Despite their promising attributes, research on ATIs remains underexplored compared to the extensively studied aromatic imides and diimides, largely due to the synthetic challenges involved in constructing three imide groups on the aromatic frameworks. In recent years, advances in synthetic protocols have significantly propelled ATI-related chemistry, expanding their applications in the realm of functional materials. This review compiles advancements in the synthesis, structural and physicochemical properties, and applications of ATIs in supramolecular chemistry and advanced materials. We anticipate that this review will not only draw greater attention to ATIs but also serve as a valuable guide for future research into these molecular building blocks.