Triphenylamine-Containing Benzoic Acids: Synthesis, Liquid Crystalline and Redox Properties

The synthesis, characterization and liquid crystalline and electrochemical properties of novel triarylamines, in which the triphenylamine platform is non-symmetrically modified with a 4-(6-oxyhexyloxy)benzoic acid group, are reported. Compounds show columnar liquid crystalline behavior, as confirmed through the use of polarized optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction. Electrochemical properties were measured using cyclic voltammperometry, obtaining low oxidation potentials and HOMO values that were optimum for consideration as organic semiconductors in hole transport layers. In addition, the photoredox activity of one of these derivatives in dichloromethane was studied under light irradiation. A photooxidation/assembly process under white light irradiation occurs without the assistance of hydrogen bonding amide functional groups.