Electro-photochemical Functionalization of C(sp3)–H bonds: Synthesis toward Sustainability

Abstract

Over the past several decades, there has been a surge of interest in harnessing the functionalization of C(sp³)–H bonds due to their promising applications across various domains. Yet, traditional methodologies have heavily leaned on stoichiometric quantities of costly and often environmentally harmful metal oxidants, posing sustainability challenges for C–H activation chemistry at large. In stark contrast, the emergence of electro-photocatalytic-driven C(sp³)–H bond activation presents a transformative alternative. This approach offers a viable route for forging carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bonds. It stands out by directly engaging inert C(sp³)–H bonds, prevalent in organic compounds, without the necessity for prefunctionalization or harsh reaction conditions. Such methodology simplifies the synthesis of intricate organic compounds and facilitates the creation of novel chemical architectures with remarkable efficiency and precision. This review aims to shed light on the notable strides achieved in recent years in the realm of C(sp³)–H bond functionalization through organic electro-photochemistry.