An Improved Synthesis of Pentacene: Rapid Access to a Benchmark Organic Semiconductor

Author： Pramanik Chandrani Miller Glen P.

Publisher： MDPI

E-ISSN： 1420-3049|17|4|4625-4633

ISSN： 1420-3049

Source： Molecules, Vol.17, Iss.4, 2012-04, pp. : 4625-4633

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Abstract

Pentacene is an organic semiconductor used in a variety of thin-film organic electronic devices. Although at least six separate syntheses of pentacene are known (two from dihydropentacenes, two from 6,13-pentacenedione and two from 6,13-dihydro-6,13-dihydroxypentacene), none is ideal and several utilize elevated temperatures that may facilitate the oxidation of pentacene as it is produced. Here, we present a fast (~2 min of reaction time), simple, high-yielding (≥90%), low temperature synthesis of pentacene from readily available 6,13-dihydro-6,13-dihydroxypentacene. Further, we discuss the mechanism of this highly efficient reaction. With this improved synthesis, researchers gain rapid, affordable access to high purity pentacene in excellent yield and without the need for a time consuming sublimation.