Solvent‐free Reactions for the Synthesis of Indolenine‐based Squaraines and Croconaines: Comparison of Thermal Heating, Mechanochemical Milling, and IR Irradiation
Nicola Zappimbulso, Maria Annunziata M. Capozzi, Andrea Porcheddu, Gianluca M. Farinola, Angela Punzi
Abstract
Squaraines and croconaines are organic dyes characterized by intense absorption in the visible or near-infrared spectral regions with applications ranging from biology to material sciences. They are commonly synthesized by condensation reactions of oxocarbonic acids (squaric or croconic acid, respectively) with electron-rich aromatic compounds in high-boiling organic solvents. Here, a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally benign process was developed for the synthesis of indolenine-based squaraines and croconaines under solvent-free conditions. Protocols based on conventional thermal heating, mechanochemical milling, and IR-light activation were compared.