Synthesis and Characterization of a Two Stage, Nonlinear Photobase Generator

Amine photobase generators (PBGs) are uncommon yet useful compounds. Rarer still are examples of PBGs that are active at visible wavelengths. We report the synthesis and characterization of new photolabile amine protecting groups that are active under visible light. The new chromophore, benzothiophene imino-phenylacetonitrile (BTIPA), was synthesized in four steps without use of chromatography and found to release any one of several amines upon exposure to 405 nm light. The chromophore was also demonstrated to be useful as a Merrifield synthesis protecting group. Experimental evidence suggests a sequential, two stage photolysis mechanism which leads to a nonlinear response to dose.