A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Synergistic 3D π–π networks enforce persistent foldamer configuration with tunable full-color circularly polarized luminescence




AuthorsHu, Hao; Zhang, Qiangsheng; Wu, Ziyan; Liu, Hongtao; Xie, Jialin; Wen, Zhenchang; Chi, Weijie; Li, Jianwei; Jia, Chunman

PublisherSpringer Nature

Publication year2026

Journal: Communications chemistry

Article number48

Volume9

eISSN2399-3669

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1038/s42004-025-01855-x

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingOpen Access

Publication channel's open availability Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.1038/s42004-025-01855-x

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/506343311

Self-archived copy's licenceCC BY NC ND

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Abstract

Achieving molecular chirality with enantiostability in purely π-conjugated foldamers remains a substantial challenge due to inherently weak π-π stacking interactions and facile racemization. Herein, we introduce a novel design strategy employing synergistic intramolecular 3D π–π stacking networks within a 1,8-diarylnaphthalene framework, enabling foldamers to exhibit extraordinary configurational stability. A systematic series of quinoxaline- and phenazine-based foldamers incorporating carbazole (CZ) and diphenylamine (DPA) donors were synthesized, with chiral configurations stabilized through complementary face-to-face and laterally offset π–π stacking interactions. Single-crystal X-ray analyses and computational studies confirmed the formation of complex intramolecular π-networks, providing exceptional racemization barriers (ΔG up to 26.06 kcal mol-1), exceeding conventional atropisomers. Additionally, the modular donor-acceptor design facilitates full-color circularly polarized luminescence (469–684 nm), maintaining high dissymmetry factors (|glum | > 10-3) across solution and solid-state environments. This work establishes a generalizable principle for constructing chiral foldamers with enantiostability and tunable optical properties through tailored 3D aromatic interactions, offering significant advances in chiral optoelectronics and responsive materials.


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Funding information in the publication
This work was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (22161017, 22161016, 22401064, 22403022), Innovational Fund for Scientific and Technological Personnel of Hainan Province (KJRC2023D34), Hainan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (224QN184, 525QN257).


Last updated on 02/02/2026 04:42:37 PM