title: An improved synthesis of pentacene: rapid access to a benchmark organic semiconductor.
abstract: Pentacene is an organic semiconductor used in a variety of thin-film organic electronic devices. Although at least six separate syntheses of pentacene are known (two from dihydropentacenes, two from 6,13-pentacenedione and two from 6,13-dihydro-6,13-dihydroxypentacene), none is ideal and several utilize elevated temperatures that may facilitate the oxidation of pentacene as it is produced. Here, we present a fast (-2 min of reaction time), simple, high-yielding (≥ 90%), low temperature synthesis of pentacene from readily available 6,13-dihydro-6,13-dihydroxypentacene. Further, we discuss the mechanism of this highly efficient reaction. With this improved synthesis, researchers gain rapid, affordable access to high purity pentacene in excellent yield and without the need for a time consuming sublimation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry & Materials Science Program, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA.
authors.forename: Chandrani
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Pramanik
authors.forename: Glen P
authors.initials: GP
authors.lastname: Miller
mesh_terms: D009279:Naphthacenes / Q000138:chemical synthesis* / Q000737:chemistry; D012666:Semiconductors
chemical_list: D009279:Naphthacenes; C523499:pentacene