Extending the Scope of a New Cyanation: Design and Synthesis of an Anthracene Derivative with an Exceptionally Low LUMO Level and Improved Solubility.

The preparation of cyanated acenes from quinones has been improved for the conversion of electron-poor starting materials. The new procedure was used to prepare rationally designed 2,7-dinitro-9,10-dicyanoanthracene. Crystallographic, morphological, and electrochemical investigations have revealed most promising properties for applications in organic electronics.