The synthesis, characterization and optical properties of novel 1,3,4-oxadiazole-containing imidazo[1,5-a]pyridine derivatives

► Novel imidazo[1,5-a]pyridine derivatives were synthesized. ► The structures were determined by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and HRMS spectra. ► We investigated the absorption and fluorescence spectral characteristics of the compounds. ► The side group in 1,3,4-oxadiazole ring can affect its photophysical properties markedly. ► Quantum calculation correlates well with their absorption.