University Chemistry ›› 2025, Vol. 40 ›› Issue (5): 334-341.doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202405208

• Chemistry Laboratory • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Application of Knoevenagel Reaction in Organic Chemistry Teaching

Shuixing Dai, Jilei Jiang, Yuxiao Wang, Jinqi Hu, Minghua Huang   

  1. School of Materials Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, Shandong Province, China
  • Received:2024-05-31 Revised:2024-08-19 Published:2025-05-21
  • Contact: Minghua Huang E-mail:huangminghua@ouc.edu.cn

Abstract: This study integrates fundamental organic chemistry concepts, including the Knoevenagel condensation reaction, with cutting-edge research in organic solar cells. Through a laboratory experiment, students synthesized a wide-bandgap fused-ring electron acceptor material, A831. Analysis of the experimental data demonstrated that diminishing the electron-withdrawing ability of the terminal groups elevated the material’s lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy level, thereby enhancing the voltage output of the organic solar cells. This experiment cultivates students’ ability to apply foundational knowledge to solve research problems, embodying the educational philosophy of “fundamental knowledge – practical application”. It is particularly suitable as a comprehensive course for senior undergraduate students.

Key words: Organic solar cells, Knoevenagel reaction, Organic chemistry, Fused-ring electron acceptor