Encapsulated-Type Iridium(III) Phosphorescent Emitters with a Hexadentate Ligand of Three Different Bidentate Units

The preparation and photophysical properties of new phosphorescent iridium(III) emitters are reported. The metal center is encapsulated by a hexadentate ligand made up of three different bidentate fragments: orthometalated 2-phenylpyridine, orthometalated 2-benzylpyridine, and metalated 2-ethylpyridine. Their formation involves activation reactions of C(sp2)–H and C(sp3)–H bonds assisted by pyridyl groups.