Influence of Alkali Metal Ions on the Mechanisms and Outcomes of Radical-Mediated Organic Reactions

Abstract

Radical chemistry, a rapidly growing field in organic synthesis, offers numerous innovative approaches for the cleavage and construction of challenging chemical bonds. Recent findings have underscored the pivotal contributions of alkali metal ions in radical-driven reactions, where they play a crucial role in lowering the energy barriers required to initiate these processes and in stabilizing vital transient radical species. These properties contribute significantly to the advancement of next-generation synthetic techniques. This article offers a concise yet thorough examination of the roles alkali metal ions assume within radical chemistry, with a specific focus on their diverse modes of activation and the associated mechanistic contexts. Our objective is to encourage and expand their strategic use across various facets of organic synthesis, catalysis, and environmentally conscious green chemistry applications.