Geodesic Phenine Frameworks

Abstract

The planar trigonal structure of 1,3,5-trisubstituted benzene, named phenine, has been adopted as basic units of polygonal networks composed of hexagons and nonhexagons for shaping nanometer-sized, curved organic π-molecules. The phenine design allows for concise syntheses of large carbonaceous molecules reaching 4 kDa by stitching the C-C bonds of geodesic lines with aryl coupling reactions. In this Account, the early development of the defective nanocarbon molecules, i.e., geodesic phenine frameworks, is summarized. In addition to the unique molecular and electronic structures of phenine frameworks, compelling structural features, such as fluctuating structures and molecular assembly, are disclosed.