Catalysis has been recognized as a key methodology for efficient and sustainable synthesis. While the efficiency of processes achieved in Nature is still unmet, biosynthetic pathways may serve as a rich source for developing new reaction manifolds. Biomimetic concepts hence may include new substrate activation strategies as realized in NHC catalysis as well as alternative approaches in the course of reaction, such as the concerted, synergistic combination of separate catalytic cycles. The concurrent activation of complementary reaction partners and the synchronization of the different catalytic cycles are major challenges in this context. Here, visible light photo(redox) catalysis has proven to allow for versatile merging with other catalytic processes. Strategies to circumvent the high costs and limited availability of current metal-complex based photocatalysts by employing pure organic dyes as broadly applicable “surrogates” will be discussed.<br/><br/>This lecture will describe our latest advances in developing new catalytic transformations, both with and without the aid of light.

Catalysis in light and shadow

249th National Meeting (2015)

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