Facile synthesis of azobenzene‐embedded conjugated macrocycles for optically switchable single‐crystal transistors and tunable supramolecular assemblies

A series of new π-conjugated macrocycles (AzoM-n-E, n = 1–3) incorporating azobenzene units have been synthesized by a facile strategy in one-pot reaction. The resultant azobenzene-embedded feature intrinsic photoresponsive behaviors and intriguing supramolecular assembling properties. smallest macrocycle AzoM-1-E with rigid planar conjugated backbone structure is used to prepare the single crystal transistors, showing reversible optical tunability. moderate size AzoM-2-E assembles into dimer form interpenetration through π-π stacking between units. largest AzoM-3-E enhanced flexibility can adaptively assemble various types electron-deficient guests accompanied distortion azobenzene. Typically, F4-TCNQ tetragonal geometry C-F···π interactions, while assembly ellipsoidal C70 via interactions induces boat-shaped geometry. This work will shed light on development functional organic electronics.