Facile synthesis of σ–π conjugated organosilicon polymers via Click polymerization

Poly[silylene-(1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-1,4-phenylene]s have been prepared via Cu(I)-catalyzed Azides and Alkynes Cycloaddition (CuAAC) polymerization from diethynylsilanes and 1,4-diazidobenzene. The organosilicon units contribute to electronic transitions between the π-conjugated units, as well as improving the solubility and processability of the polymers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) have been utilized to confirm the structure of these polymers. The UV–visible spectra of polymers show almost identical absorption at around 270 nm. The fluorescence emission in CHCl3 solutions were observed as similar broad band in visible blue region (ca. 430 nm). The quantum yields (Φ) were ranged from 0.19 to 0.37. The optical properties support the σ–π conjugation of the silylene and aromatic heterocycle groups, and the substituents on silicon atoms have negligible effect on the photoproperties.

Graphical abstractPoly[silylene-(1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-1,4-phenylene]s (P1–P3) were prepared from diethynylsilanes and 1,4-diazidobenzene by click polymerization. The fluorescence spectrum of the products in dilute CHCl3 solutions exhibit emission in visible blue region (ca. 430 nm) with moderate quantum yields (0.19–0.37), showing these polymers may be potentially applied as emission materials in OLEDs.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Silicon-containing polymers were prepared via CuAAC Click step-growth polymerization. ► The fluorescence emission spectrum was observed in visible blue region (ca. 430 nm). ► The photoproperties indicated the σ–π conjugation between the silylene and aromatic heterocycle groups.