Synthesis, UV–Vis and CV properties of a structurally related series of bis(Arylimino)acenaphthenes (Ar-BIANs)

Herein, we report the synthesis and electrochemical and spectroscopic characterization for a series of six bis(arylimino)acenaphthene, compounds commonly used as ligands in catalysis, polymerization and materials. Low energy absorption bands are the result of an intraligand charge transfer between the aryl groups and the acenaphthene core, and their energies obey a Hammett relationship with respect to substitution on the aryl. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.