Synthesis and optical properties of novel anthracene-based stilbene derivatives containing an 1,3,4-oxadiazole unit

A series of anthracene-based stilbene derivatives containing an 1,3,4-oxadiazole unit were efficiently synthesized by a four-pots reaction sequence. All of the target compounds were characterized using, FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. For the samples, the UV–visible absorption coefficient, maximum wavelength, fluorescence excitation wavelength, fluorescence emission wavelength and fluorescence quantum yield, were measured in dilute tetrahydrofuran solution. Cyclic voltammetry studies revealed that the molecules have low-lying LUMO and HOMO energy levels suggesting these compounds may possess good electron-transporting or hole-blocking properties.

► Novel anthracene-based stilbene derivatives were efficiently synthesized.
► The 1,3,4-oxadiazole unit was successfully introduced into the molecular structure.
► The compounds exhibited bright green emission with high fluorescence quantum yields.
► The compounds have good electron affinities offering potential application in OLEDs.