Complementary aromatic compounds that promote self-assembly to form donor-acceptor columnar liquid crystals are a key area of exploration in the Reczek group. Presented here is our recent research into efficient synthesis of anthraquinones using novel microwave condensation conditions. Specifically, we report condensation acylation reactions of benzoic acid derivatives paired with strong organic acids through microwave thermal irradiation. The new substituted anthraquinone are alkylated, and then studied as liquid crystal materials.   In addition, the anthraquinones can then be reduced to anthracenes to form highly-substituted electron-rich arenes.  These molecules show promise as components for new donor-acceptor columnar liquid crystals, and in a variety of organic electronic applications.

Microwave synthesis of new anthraquinones towards electron-rich aromatics

247th National Meeting (2014)

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