Rapid synthesis of 3-cyanopyridine-derived chromophores with two-dimensional tunability and solvatochromic photophysical properties

Nicotinonitrile chromophores with two tunable functions, excellent photophysical properties and solvatochromic behaviour can be prepared quickly and efficiently by microwave-assisted tandem oxidation/Bohlmann-Rahtz heteroannulation followed by copper(I)-mediated N-arylation.