Donor–Acceptor 1,2,4,5-Tetrazines Prepared by the Buchwald–Hartwig Cross-Coupling Reaction and Their Photoluminescence Turn-On Property by Inverse Electron Demand Diels–Alder Reaction

Abstract

A facile efficient synthetic tool, Buchwald-Hartwig cross-coupling reaction, for the functionalization of 1,2,4,5-tetrazines is presented. Important factors affecting the Buchwald-Hartwig cross-coupling reaction have been optimized. Seven new donor-acceptor tetrazine molecules (<b>TA1</b>-<b>TA7</b>) were conveniently prepared in good to high yields (61-72%). They have been subsequently engaged in the inverse electron demand Diels-Alder (iEDDA) reaction with cyclooctyne. The photophysical and electrochemical properties of the new pyridazines have been studied. Some are fluorescent acting as turn-on probes. More importantly, two pyridazines (<b>DA3</b> and <b>DA6</b>) exhibit room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) properties.