Convergent synthesis of meso-ferrocenyl porphyrins for TiO2 sensitization

Electron-donating ferrocenyl moieties have been incorporated into supramolecular carboxyporphyrin architectures Zn(II)-5-ferrocenyl-10,20-bistolyl-15-(4-methylbenzoate)porphyrin (trans-Fc-ZnP-CO₂Me), Zn(II)-5-ferrocenyl-10,15,20-tris(4-methylbenzoate)porphyrin [trans-Fc-ZnP-(CO₂Me)₃], and Zn(II)-5,15-bisferrocenyl-10,20-bis(4-benzoate)porphyrin [trans-Fc₂-ZnP-(CO₂Me)₂] for self-assembly on metal oxide nanoparticles. Efficient and economic synthesis has required a convergent strategy toward reduced symmetry trans-A₂B₂ and trans-AB₂C substitution patterns about the porphyrin macrocycle minimizing the production of porphyrin side products and increasing yields of the target ferrocenylporphyrins. Preliminary spectroscopic data in solution and in the solid state bound to mesoporous TiO₂ films are discussed.