Synthesis and fluorescence properties of DMCX+-a stable oxygen-bridged [4]helicenium dye

A one-step synthesis of the stable [4]helicenium dye, 1,13-dimethoxy-chromeno[2,3,4-kl]xanthenium hexafluorophosphate (DMCX+) from the readily available tris(2,6-dimethoxyphenyl)carbenium ion is reported. The crystal structure, the chemical stability, and dye properties of the DMCX+ helicenium system are described.