Investigation of two-photon absorption behavior in symmetrical acceptor–π–acceptor derivatives with dimesitylboryl end-groups. Evidence of new engineering routes for TPA/transparency trade-off optimization

Investigations of the non-linear optical properties of a novel series of A-pi-A quadrupoles, based on dimesitylboron end-groups, reveal the promising potential of elongated vinylboranes derivatives for combined enhanced two-photon absorption cross-section and improved transparency in the visible region. In addition, the excited state lifetime can be significantly enhanced in A-pi-A'-pi-A derivatives. This opens a new route towards optimized molecules for optical power limiting.