Naphthalene-based fluorophores: Synthesis characterization, and photophysical properties

U-type, 1,8-diarylnaphthalenes and 1,8-diarylethynylnaphthalenes were synthesized and their structures were characterized by spectroscopic methods. Emission performance of these compounds with donor and acceptor was largely depended upon the solvent polarity and environmental acidity, which implied that they might be used as solvent polarity sensors or pH sensors as well. Moreover, some 1,8-diarylnaphthalenes exhibited aggregation-induced emission enhancement (AIEE) based on their photophysical investigation and might be used as light emitting materials for optoelectronic applications. - Highlights: → 1,8-Diarylnaphthalenes and 1,8-diarylethynylnaphthalenes were synthesized. → Emission of these compounds depended on solvent polarity and environmental acidity. → Some 1,8-diarylnaphthalenes exhibited aggregation-induced emission enhancement.