Achieving Extreme Solubility and Green Solvent-Processed Organic Field-Effect Transistors: A Viable Asymmetric Functionalization of [1]Benzothieno[3,2-B][1]Benzothiophenes

Abstract

Novel structural engineering strategies for solubilizing high-mobility semiconductors are critical, which enables green solvent processing for eco-friendly, sustainable device fabrication, and unique molecular properties. Here, we introduce a viable asymmetric functionalization approach, synthesizing monocarbonyl [1]benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophene molecules on a gram scale in two transition-metal-free steps. An unprecedented solubility of up to 176.0 mg·mL–1(at room temperature) is achieved, which is the highest reported to date for a high-performance organic semiconductor. The single-crystal structural analysis reveals a herringbone motif with multiple edge-to-face interactions and nonclassical hydrogen bonds involving the carbonyl unit. The asymmetric backbones adopt an antiparallel arrangement, enabling face-to-face π-π interactions. The mono(alkyl-aryl)carbonyl-BTBT compound, m-C<inf>6</inf>PhCO-BTBT enables formulations in varied green solvents, including acetone and ethanol, all achieving p-channel top-contact/bottom-gate OFETs in ambient conditions. Charge carrier mobilities of up to 1.87 cm2/V·s (μ<inf>eff</inf>≈ 0.4 cm2/V·s; I<inf>on</inf>/I<inf>off</inf>≈ 107–108) were achieved. To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the highest OFET performances achieved using a green solvent. Hansen solubility parameters (HSP) analysis, combined with Scatchard–Hildebrand regular solution theory and single-crystal packing analysis, elucidates this exceptional solubility and reveals unique relationships between molecular structure, interaction energy densities, cohesive energetics, and solute–solvent distances (R<inf>a</inf>). An optimal solute–green solvent interaction distance in HSP space proves critical for green solvent-processed thin-film properties. This asymmetric functionalization approach, with demonstrated unique solubility insights, provides a foundation for designing green solvent-processable π-conjugated systems, potentially advancing innovation in sustainable (opto)electronics and bioelectronics. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.