Efficient synthesis and properties of novel near-infrared electrochromic anthraquinone imides.

An efficient synthesis of novel near-infrared electrochromic 6-substituted (NO2, Br) anthraquinone imides, i.e., 2a and 2b, was established. Bearing functional groups suitable for further structural modifications by nucleophilic substitution reaction and various metal-catalyzed coupling reactions (e.g., Suzuki coupling), 2a and 2b were easily transferred to 1a by reaction with 4-methoxyphenol and 1b by reaction with 4-hexyloxyphenylboronic acid, respectively. These new imides are electrochromic and absorb intensely in the near-infrared range of 700-1600 nm upon electrochemical reduction.