Donor–Acceptor Molecular Triangles

The synthesis and optoelectronic properties of five donor–acceptor molecules, featuring an electron-acceptor unit made of six fused benzenoid rings that resembles an equilateral triangle, are described. These molecular ‘triangles’ were synthesized in eight steps from simple building blocks such that the electron-donor substituents could be installed in the last step by means of the Suzuki cross-coupling reaction. All molecules absorb and emit visible light in the region of around 450–650 and 550–850 nm, respectively, exhibit solvatochromism, and possess up to four redox states.