Synthesis of Anthracene and Azaanthracene Fluorophores via [2+2+2] Cyclotrimerization Reactions

A highly convergent [2+2+2]-cyclotrimerization approach to anthracenes and 2-azaanthracenes has been developed. It allows for the facile introduction of the anthracene moiety on alkyne and nitrile bearing molecules and the rapid construction of compound arrays. This is showcased in the assembly of a collection of fluorophores and their photochemical evaluation.