Rh(III)-Catalyzed One-Step Synthesis of ortho-Alkynylated Perylene Imide Dyes: Optical and Electrochemical Properties of New Derivatives.

A one-step Rh-catalyzed site-selective ortho-C-H alkynylation of perylene as well as naphthalene mono- and diimides is reported. A single step regioselective access to ortho-C-H alkynylated derivatives of these ryleneimides not only increases the step economy of the ortho-functionalization on these dyes but also provides a quick access route towards highly functionalized dyes that have potential optoelectronic applications. Increased solubility of tetra(triisopropylsilyl)acetylenyl PDIs in organic solvents greatly enhances their utility for further derivatization.