title: Tuning charge transfer energetics in reaction center mimics via T(h)-functionalization of fullerenes.
abstract: We have introduced an approach of mono- and hexakis-adducts of C(60) involving a T(h)-symmetrical addition pattern, where up to 12 ferrocene or 10 ferrocene and one porphyrin units are linked flexibly to C(60) with the objective to systematically raise the energy of the radical ion pair state. A detailed electrochemical and photophysical investigation has shed light onto charge transfer events that depend largely on (i) the functionalization pattern of C(60), (ii) the donor strength of the donor, (iii) the excited-state energy of the predominant chromophore, and (iv) the solvent polarity. Considering (i)-(iv), the presence of the porphyrins is key to providing sufficient driving forces for affording spatially separated radical ion pair states. An ideal scenario, that is, testing ZnP-C(60)-(Fc)(10) (19) in benzonitrile and DMF, allows storing nearly 1.7 eV in a nanosecond lived radical ion pair state. In this context, the flexible linkage, powering a through space charge transfer, prevents, however, stabilization of the radical ion pair state beyond nanoseconds.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy and Interdisciplinary Center of Molecular Materials, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen Nürnberg, Egerlandstrasse 3, 91058 Erlangen, Germany.
authors.forename: Fabian
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Spänig
authors.forename: Christian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Kovacs
authors.forename: Frank
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Hauke
authors.forename: Kei
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Ohkubo
authors.forename: Shunichi
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Fukuzumi
authors.forename: Dirk M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Guldi
authors.forename: Andreas
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Hirsch
mesh_terms: D004579:Electron Transport; D005296:Ferrous Compounds / Q000737:chemistry; D037741:Fullerenes / Q000737:chemistry*; D000075163:Metallocenes; D018716:Molecular Mimicry; D045322:Photosynthetic Reaction Center Complex Proteins / Q000737:chemistry*
chemical_list: D005296:Ferrous Compounds; D037741:Fullerenes; D000075163:Metallocenes; D045322:Photosynthetic Reaction Center Complex Proteins; C004998:ferrocene