Charging molecular nanographenes with electrons through chemical reduction

Chemical reduction studies of molecular nanographenes with different core dimensions and topologies are used to uncover their electron accepting abilities and original outcomes of the negative charge build-up. A combination of X-ray crystallographic and spectroscopic analysis of the gradually reduced nanographenes reveals their multi-electron accepting properties, coupled with original charge-dependent conformational changes, unique structural transformations, site-specific reactivity, and supramolecular aggregation. By providing an overview of structural and electronic responses to the stepwise reduction, this review aims to promote further studies of supercharged molecular nanographenes and their use as advanced energy-storage materials.