Synthesis of soluble all-trans oligomers of 2,5-diheptyloxy-p-phenylenevinylene via olefin metathesis

In this paper we report on the synthesis of all-trans oligomers of 2,5-diheptyloxy-p-phenylenevinylene (2,5-diheptyloxy-PV) via olefin metathesis condensation of 2,5-diheptyloxy-1,4-divinylbenzene

1 The correct IUPAC name is 1,4-bis(heptyloxy)-2,5-divinylbenzene. The name 2,5-diheptyloxy-1,4-divinylbenzene is used in order to underline the structural similarity to 2,5-diheptyloxy-p-phenylenevinylene oligomers.

(2,5-diheptyloxy-DVB). The preparation of the monomer is also described. The Schrock type molybdenum alkylidene complex Mo(NPhMe₂)(CHCMe₂Ph)(OCMeCF₃]₂)₂ was used as metathesis catalyst. The oligomer product obtained was characterized by means of ¹H NMR, IR and UV/Vis spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography.