Synthesis of dumbbell-like DBATT dimers**

Abstract

Two-dimensional acenes are promising candidates for applications in single-molecule spectroscopy due to the electronic properties caused by their zig-zag periphery. However, synthetic access to their dimers remains unexplored because of low solubility and reduced stability. Herein we report a facile approach towards two-dimensional acenes dimers on the example of 2.3,8.9-dibenzanthanthrene (DBATT) connected via rigid linker. The exploitation of dehydrative π-extension on the last step of the synthesis allows avoiding difficulties connected with cumbersome purification of low soluble products. The technique was shown to be applicable for the synthesis of DBATT dimers connected rigidly with conjugated and non-conjugated linkers, containing alternating para-phenylene and bicyclo[2.2.2]octane moieties.