Stereoisomerization during Molecular Packing

• DOI: 10.1002/adma.202100986
• Publication Date: 2021-04-29T15:16:28Z
• Authors: Shidang Xu; Yukun Duan; Purnima Manghnani; Kenry; Chengjian Chen; Sergey M. Kozlov; Bin Liu
• Keywords: Technology; Science & Technology; Multidisciplinary; Physics; Materials Science; molecular design; Condensed Matter; stereoisomerization; 01 natural sciences; 0104 chemical sciences; Chemistry; solid‐ state materials; molecular packing; Physical Sciences; Applied; Physical; Science & Technology - Other Topics; Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

AbstractIsomerization is an essential chemical process that often evokes dramatic change of chemical, physical, or biological properties. For a long time, isomerization has been known as a transformation that is induced by certain external energy such as light, heat, or mechanical force. Herein, a new isomerization phenomenon is described, which does not require external energy but simply occurs during molecular packing. The proposed isomerization is demonstrated by a series of symmetric donor–acceptor–donor (D–A–D) molecules, the donor of which may adopt two different stereoisomeric forms. Based on the evidence of the asymmetric isomers in crystals, the occurrence of isomerization during molecular packing is proved. Moreover, the unique asymmetric geometry in the solid state favors the restriction of intramolecular motion, resulting in highly efficient organic solids with quantum yields approaching unity.