Direct C(sp3)−H Activation Reactions via Energy Transfer Catalysis

The use of visible light together with photocatalysts to promote organic reactivity in organic synthesis via photoredox catalysis has led to the development of more sustainable ways to perform organic reactions but has also enabled new reactivity patterns by accessing new radical pathways that are not available by classical UV-light photochemistry or conventional two electron chemistry.

The proposed research focuses on the development of new methodologies  for C(sp3)–H bond activation by the means of energy transfer catalysis.

The direct C–H activation described in the proposed research program involves the development of synthetic methodologies that will provide strategic alternatives to today’s ineffective multistep processes.

The use of low-energy visible light as the source of activation of the photocatalysts has the potential to control the reactivity of the generated O- and N-centered radicals from oxime carbonates more precisely and thereby delivering more sustainable access to complex organic molecules via energy transfer, N–O bond cleavage, hydrogen atom transfer and radical-radical coupling.The specific aims include, but are not limited to:Site-selective intramolecular C(sp3)–H activation via energy transfer catalysisDirect intermolecular C(sp3)–H functionalization of aliphatic hydrocarbonsStereoselective photocatalysis to access enantiopure compounds via C(sp3)–H activation