Selective Para-Functionalization of Aromatic C(sp²)─H Bonds via Atomically Dispersed Photocatalysis

Area of Science:

• Organic Chemistry
• Catalysis
• Photochemistry

Background:

• Direct functionalization of aromatic C─H bonds is vital in pharmaceuticals and materials science.
• Achieving site selectivity in these reactions is a significant challenge.
• Traditional methods often require directing groups or lead to mixtures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a catalytic system for undirected para-C─H functionalization of electron-rich arenes.
• To bypass the need for pre-installed directing groups.
• To enable site-selective functionalization under mild conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an atomically dispersed copper-based photocatalyst.
• Employed an η² interaction with arenes for site selectivity.
• Investigated the functionalization of electron-rich arenes.

Main Results:

• Achieved robust and site-selective para-C─H functionalization without directing groups.
• Demonstrated a broad substrate scope and excellent catalyst recyclability.
• Successfully applied the method to incorporate functional groups into complex drug molecules.

Conclusions:

• The developed catalytic system offers a novel and efficient approach for C─H functionalization.
• This method provides a valuable tool for pharmaceutical synthesis and natural product chemistry.
• The use of single-atom catalysts (SACs) shows great promise for selective organic transformations.