Synthesis and properties of novel unsymmetrical donor molecules containing p-acetoxy- or p-hydroxyphenyl units

We report the synthesis and properties of eight new tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) derivatives containing two different functionalities, prepared with the aim of obtaining stable organic materials. The four acetoxyphenyl- and four hydroxyphenyl TTFs were synthesized via Wittig-type condensations. The electrochemical properties of these redox-active molecules were studied by cyclic voltammetry. Charge transfer complexes with tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) were prepared by chemical redox reactions. The complexes have been proven to give conducting materials. The UV-VIS and IR spectra of the TCNQ salts were recorded and used to characterize and estimate the degree of charge transfer of these complexes.