Computational insights into solvent polarity associated excited state behaviour for 2-(1H-benzoimidazol-2-yl)−5-diethylamino-phenyl fluorophore

Abstract

Inspired by the mesmerising charm emanating from the precisely controlled attributes displayed by 2-(1H-benzoimidazol-2-yl)−5-diethylamino-phenyl (HDP) and its derivatives in the domains of photochemistry and photobiology, our present undertaking predominantly focuses on exploring the complexities of light-triggered excited state reactions for HDP fluorophore dissolved in solvents with diverse levels of polarity. Initially, we performed molecular structure optimisation at various stages of the proton transfer process and collected data on bond length, bond angle, and core-valence bifurcation (CVB) index for the molecular framework. Subsequently, infrared (IR) vibrational spectra were analysed to evaluate the reinforcement of hydrogen bonds in different solutions. Furthermore, the investigation of orbital transitions and potential energy curves has led to the conclusion that the ESIPT process of HDP molecules is most likely to occur in nonpolar ccl4 solution, followed by chloroform solution; acetonitrile ranks last. In essence, the nonpolar aprotic solvents are more conducive to facilitating the ESIPT process. This research aims to contribute towards advancements in new luminescent materials and prove valuable in display technology and medical imaging fields while also promoting related technological development.