Exploring the influence of acceptor-strength in alkoxyphenanthrene-based A–π–D–π–A versus D–π–A architectures for resistive WORM memory devices

A series of D–π–A and A–π–D–π–A architecture molecules were designed and synthesized. Additional ethynyl-linked acceptors in A–π–D–π–A compounds enhanced conjugation, reduced band gap and delivered improved memory device performance.