Synthesis and spectral properties of non-symmetrical red and near IR emitter dibenzoBODIPYs

New symmetrical and non-symmetrical benzoBODIPYs have been synthesized from diketones. For the two series the 3 and 5 positions have been substituted by different aromatic rings and onto benzo sub-units different groups have been introduced. The methodology of diketones self-condensation provides symmetrical dyes. By cross-condensation reaction, these positions can be differentiated and specific functions connected to the desired positions. These molecules have been fully characterized and their optical properties analyzed by both experimental and theoretical means. They are red to NIR emitters with a range of emission from 679 to 780?nm in CH₂Cl₂. They show maxima of absorption between 651?nm and 732?nm, strong ε of around 100,000?M^?1?cm^?1 and quite good quantum yields from 16% to 75%. The thienyl moiety on α-positions of the nitrogens generates the highest red shifts. Meanwhile dimethylamino groups in the same positions bring, besides chemical properties, proton sensitive dyes. The bromine atom onto the dibenzo sub-units exhibits good reactivity through Sonogashira coupling reactions. This approach provides multifunctional red to NIR dyes with endless possibilities of combination of chemical properties.