Synthesis and Optical Characterization of a Novel Benzofuran-Based Molecule: 3-Amino-2-Pinacolone Benzofuran

In the present study, a novel benzofuran-based compound, 3-amino-2-pinacolone benzofuran (APBF), was synthesized in high yield via the aldol condensation of 2-hydroxybenzonitrile with 1-chloropinacolone in the presence of potassium carbonate and acetonitrile. The structure of APBF was confirmed by FTIR and 1H, 13C-NMR spectroscopic analyses, which clearly defined its spectral characteristics. The UV–Vis absorption properties of APBF were comprehensively investigated to elucidate its photophysical behavior. Intense absorption bands were observed corresponding to π→π* transitions within the conjugated benzofuran framework, while the red-shifted bands were attributed to n→π* transitions arising from the carbonyl and amino functional groups. The APBF molecule exhibited excellent optical transparency in the higher wavelength region. Some optical dispersion parameters, including the single-oscillator energy, dispersion energy, oscillator strength, and oscillator wavelength were determined from the dispersion analysis. The optical band gap was found to be 3.311 eV indicating potential suitability of APBF for electro-optical applications. The relatively low Urbach energy (0.035 eV) indicated a well-ordered molecular structure with minimal defect-induced disorder confirming the excellent optical quality of the present molecule.