Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling
reaction of photoswitchable
dithienylethene (AEDTE) with metal-free 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-iodophenyl)porphyrin
and its metal derivatives (MTIPP, M = H2, Zn(II), Fe(II))
results in three porous organic polymers (POPs) including AEDTE-H2TIPP-POP, AEDTE-ZnTIPP-POP, and AEDTE-FeTIPP-POP. The morphology,
components, and structures of newly obtained POPs have been examined
by a range of spectroscopic and microscopic techniques including infrared
spectroscopy (IR), solid-state UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy,
thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), powder X-ray diffraction, scanning
electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The porous
structures have been estimated by nitrogen and carbon dioxide sorption
isotherms at 77 and 196 K, respectively. The open-AEDTE-H2TIPP-POP with AEDTE in an open form was revealed to be an effective
and stable heterogeneous photocatalyst for visible light-driven oxidation
of N-methylpyridinium salts possibly because of its
relatively large specific surface area. In particular, a proof-of-concept
of photoswitchable POP photocatalysts has been established using different
light irradiation upon open-AEDTE-H2TIPP-POP to control
its heterogeneous photocatalytic behaviors because of the adjustment
over the electron transfer process and porous structures through photoisomerization
of AEDTE. The present result highlights the bright perspective of
photoswitching POPs in the field of materials chemistry and catalysis
community.