Photoredox reactions are those which employ light to generate new products through electron transfer reactions, and are frequently catalyzed by complexes of precious metals, such as Ru(bpy)3Cl2 and Ir(ppy)3. We have been investigating reactions of this kind, using copper complexes as catalysts instead of the customary ruthenium or iridium complexes. This could lead to reactions that are both less toxic and less expensive. Specifically, we have been researching the α-alkylation and α-benzylation of aldehydes using copper(I) bisphenanthroline complexes, such as Cu(dap)2Cl. This reaction involves a second, chiral catalyst, and results in the enantioselective formation of chiral products. We have been working towards optimizing our reactions by changing a variety of reaction conditions, including catalyst structure and solvent. We have also evaluated the scope of reaction partners compatible with this reaction and measured the enantiomeric excess of the products.

Application of copper(I) bisphenanthroline complexes in enantioselective photoredox reactions

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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