We are investigating the use of copper(I) catalysts in reactions that couple aldehydes with benzyl bromides through a photoredox process. Photoredox reactions most commonly use ruthenium or iridium catalysts, such as Ru(bpy)3Cl2 and Ir(ppy)3, and we hope that replacing these with catalysts based on an earth abundant metal, such as copper, will result in less expensive reactions. We are currently exploring the use of bis(phenanthroline)copper(I) complexes in the context of a reaction involving the α-benzylation of aldehydes, using benzyl bromides and a chiral catalyst to control facial selectivity. We have worked to optimize this reaction to find the most effective conditions, and have begun an investigation of the reaction scope.

Investigating the use of copper photoredox catalysts in the α-benzylation of aldehydes

251st National Meeting (2016)

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