A Straightforward Synthesis to Novel 1,10-Phenanthrolines with Fused Thiophene Structure

<jats:p>We report here a straightforward synthesis for a series of new structures with fused 1,10-phenanthroline-thiophene connection. They are synthesized with a modified Hinsberg thiophene procedure, followed by successive modification to yield several 5,7-disubstituted thieno[3,4-f][1,10]phenanthrolines, most notable thiophene-substituted compounds that could be potentially of use for organic electronics ­applications. For some selected examples, crystal structures were ­obtained, showing a nearly coplanar arrangement around the fused connection, also beneficial for an effective electron transfer in organic electronics or solar cells.</jats:p>