Synthesis of α‐Aryl Carbonyls via Photoinduced Formation of C−C Bonds

Abstract

The present review aims to provide an overview of recent developments in photochemical and photocatalyzed synthesis of α‐aryl carbonyls via formation of C(sp)2−C(sp)3 bonds. The approaches described are based on the use of light as the exclusive energy source for the generation of highly reactive carbon radicals, cations or radical ions as the key intermediates of the process. Such strategies efficiently compete with traditional routes, that require the combined use of transition metal complexes, ligands, additives and often harsh reaction conditions.

Photocatalytic α-arylation of cyclic ketones by a thermally activated delayed fluorescence molecule

“…Developing a photocatalytic, transition-metal-free method would be quite appealing for achieving a milder preparation of α-arylated carbonyl compounds. 12 Furthermore, making such a protocol base free could avoid the crippling problems of self-condensation and over-arylation of some of the cyclic ketones. We have a strong interest in efficient aryl radical generation involving electron transfer from the photocatalyst to the aryl halide molecule.…”