Synthesis and characterization of phenanthrene derivatives for optoelectronic applications

New phenanthrene derivatives, bearing cyano group at selected positions, have been prepared in good yields through Knoevenagel condensation and classical oxidative photocyclization. The optical properties of the cyanophenanthrenes have been investigated by UV-vis absorption. A cyclic voltammetry analysis showed a relatively high electronic affinity, indicating that they may be good candidates for electron-injection hole blocking layers in organic light-emitting diodes.