Photocatalytic Radical Alkene Hydrogenation by Phosphine-Mediated Water Activation

Key words

photocatalysis - hydrogenation - unactivated alkenes - phosphine - radicals

Significance

Studer and co-workers report a photocatalytic radical hydrogenation of alkenes through phosphine-mediated water activation. The method is remarkably compatible with a range of activated and unactivated alkenes, and shows a large functional group tolerance. The corresponding saturated products were generally obtained with good yields and good selectivity.

Comment

The authors elegantly employ hydrogen atom transfer to a closed-shell system to achieve alkene hydrogenation. Using stoichiometric phosphine oxide generation as the driving force, water activation is achieved. This reactivity presents a compelling alternative to known organocatalytic transfer hydrogenations, and additionally facilitates skeletal-editing and cyclization reactions.

Publication History

Article published online:
16 August 2023