Synthesis, spectroscopy, photophysics and thermal behaviour of stilbene-based triarylamines with dehydroabietic acid methyl ester moieties

Novel stilbene-based triarylamines with dehydroabietic acid methyl ester moieties have been synthesised by palladium catalysed C–N coupling reactions. The presence of the bulky dehydroabietic acid group increases solubility, hinders crystallisation and permits their sublimation while preserving their electronic and optical characteristics. This makes them good candidates for various molecular electronic applications. We report a detailed characterisation of their electrochemical, spectroscopic and photophysical properties. In addition, the thermal stability and behaviour is discussed with reference to the potential for preparation of stable thin films.