We report a visible-light-mediated
benzylic C–H oxygenation
reaction. The reaction is initiated by solar light or the blue LED
activation of 9,10-dibromoanthracene in a reaction with oxygen and
takes place at ambient temperature and air pressure. Secondary benzylic
positions are oxygenated to ketones, while tertiary benzylic carbons
are oxygenated to give hydroperoxides. Notably, cumene hydroperoxide
is produced in a higher yield and at milder conditions than the currently
employed industrial conditions.