9-Borafluorenes: Synthesis, Properties, and Reactivity.

This review covers all aspects of 9-borafluorene chemistry, from the first attempted synthesis in 1960 to the present. This class of molecules consists of a tricyclic system featuring a central antiaromatic BC4 ring with two fused arene groups. The synthetic routes to all 9-borafluorenes and their adducts are presented. The Lewis acidity and photophysical properties outlined demonstrate potential utility as sensors and in electronic materials. The reactivity of borafluorenes reveals their prospects as reagents for the synthesis of other boron-containing molecules. The appealing traits of 9-borafluorenes have stimulated investigations into analogues that bear different aromatic groups fused to the central BC4 ring. Finally, we offer our views on the challenges and future of borafluorene chemistry.