IR36

IR36. It is a synthetic organic compound belonging to a class of chemicals developed for specialized applications in materials science and industrial chemistry. First synthesized in the late 20th century, its unique molecular structure imparts specific functional properties that have been leveraged in various technological fields. Research and development around this compound have been documented in publications from institutions like the American Chemical Society and the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Overview

IR36 is characterized by a complex aromatic backbone, often incorporating heterocyclic components similar to those found in advanced polymer systems and photovoltaic materials. Its development is part of a broader trend in chemical engineering focused on creating substances with tailored electronic or photophysical properties. The compound's stability under a range of conditions makes it a subject of interest for both academic research and industrial application, with studies frequently cited in journals such as *Angewandte Chemie* and *Advanced Materials*.

History and Development

The initial synthesis of IR36 was reported by a research team at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the early 1990s, building upon earlier work on organic semiconductors conducted at Bell Labs. This period saw significant investment from entities like the United States Department of Energy and the European Union's Framework Programmes for Research and Technological Development into novel functional materials. Subsequent optimization of its production process was achieved through collaborations between BASF and the University of Cambridge, improving yield and purity for commercial-scale manufacturing.

Technical Specifications

The molecular formula of IR36 is C~42~H~28~N~4~O~2~S~2~, with a precise molar mass confirmed via mass spectrometry at facilities like the National Institute of Standards and Technology. It exhibits a high melting point, typically above 250°C, and demonstrates notable solubility in dichloromethane and toluene but limited solubility in water or ethanol. Key spectroscopic signatures, including its UV-Vis absorption peak and fluorescence emission band, are cataloged in databases such as SciFinder and Reaxys.

Applications and Uses

Primary applications of IR36 are found in the realm of optoelectronics, where it serves as an active layer component in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) used in displays from manufacturers like Samsung and LG Corporation. It is also investigated as a photosensitizer in next-generation dye-sensitized solar cells, with research partnerships involving the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne and the Max Planck Society. Furthermore, its derivatives are explored in non-linear optics for telecommunications equipment and as a charge-transport material in devices studied at the IBM Research laboratories.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

Handling of IR36 is governed by standard chemical safety protocols outlined in guidelines from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the European Chemicals Agency. Its material safety data sheet indicates it is an irritant to skin and eyes, requiring the use of personal protective equipment such as nitrile gloves and safety goggles. Environmental fate and transport studies, often mandated by regulations like the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) in the European Union, are conducted to assess its ecotoxicological profile before large-scale deployment.

Category:Chemical compounds Category:Industrial chemicals