Spectroscopic properties of new and convenient standards for measuring fluorescence quantum yields

Three perylene derivatives with fluorescent quantum yields of 100% are suggested as new useful standards for the determination of fluorescence quantum yields. The compounds are N,N'-bis(1-hexylheptyl)-3,4 :9,10-perylenebis(dicarboximide) and perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylictetramethyl ester which dissolve in organic solvents, and the water-soluble perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic acid tetrapotassium salt. All compounds are easily handled, very photostable, and show only minor quenching by oxygen under normal experimental conditions.