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Photoacids and Photobases: Applications in Functional Dynamic Systems
Anna Yucknovsky1,2, Nadav Amdursky1,3
1Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 3200003, Israel.
Angewandte Chemie (International Ed. in English)
|January 31, 2025
Summary
Brønsted photoacids and photobases use light to control chemical reactions by altering proton transfer. This review explores their application in light-gating dynamic systems like nanostructures and catalysis.
Area of Science:
- Photochemistry
- Supramolecular Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Brønsted photoacids and photobases exhibit significant pKa shifts between ground and excited states.
- This light-induced proton transfer enables precise control over chemical equilibria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of Brønsted photoacids and photobases in light-gating dynamic systems.
- To highlight their role in manipulating various functional processes using light excitation.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on photoacid/photobase applications.
- Analysis of proton transfer mechanisms in different dynamic systems.
- Discussion of guidelines for implementing photoacids/photobases.
Main Results:
- Photoacids/photobases facilitate light-controlled proton transfer for system equilibrium shifts.
- Applications demonstrated in nanostructure self-assembly, droplet self-propulsion, and catalysis (H2 evolution, CO2 capture).
- Exploration of use in enzymatic nanodevices and proton-conducting materials.
Conclusions:
- Brønsted photoacids and photobases offer versatile light-gating capabilities for dynamic systems.
- Further research is needed to address current technological gaps for broader implementation.
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