1,8-Pyrenylene-ethynylene macrocycles.

A concise, highly regioselective synthesis of 1,8-dibromo-4,5-dialkoxypyrenes has been developed and exploited in the synthesis of some 1,8-pyrenylene-ethynylene macrocycles. The (1)H NMR data and NICS calculations indicate that there is little or no macrocyclic ring current. Concentration-dependent UV-visible studies indicate no aggregation at low concentration, but 8b forms dimers with voids suitable for intercalation of small molecules in the solid state.