Synthesis and characterization of Aniline Black related model compounds and starburst polyarylamines.

Abstract

Aniline Black is perhaps the oldest known synthetic polymer. It has been studied since the mid 19ᵗʰ century, and is still a matter of interest. These interests arise from the fact that Aniline Black is inexpensive, yet has some very unusual and potentially useful electrical properties. The present approach has been a systematic study of Aniline Black related compounds. The model compounds were synthesized in a controlled fashion to dictate exact structure and purity. It is expected that the better the process of formation, the more uniform the structure, and hence a more usable material as an organic semiconductor. In the course of this investigation conclusions were drawn as to the structure/function aspects of the derived compounds. Attempts to alter the structure of model compounds deviated from the hypothesized behavior. Starburst model compounds displayed properties unexpected to the investigators. Available information about starburst polymers is very scarce. This work complements previous work on Aniline Black and related compounds, and adds a new source of knowledge in starburst chemistry. The properties of starburst compounds can be predicted only in part from the chemical makeup of the materials; this study gives some of the predictions based on the morphology. Several new approaches to the synthesis of useful Aniline Black model compounds grew from the knowledge obtained during this research. These will be presented with the body of the work and discussed at the conclusion as to the significance of such an investigation.