Phthalocyanines, Pcs, are a class of photosensitizers that generate singlet oxygen, 1O2, using visible light. Singlet-oxygen decays to form reactive oxygen species (ROS), including hydroxyl (HO●) and superoxide (O2-●) radicals, which could extract H●, for example non-specifically from C-H bonds, or oxygenate atoms, for example heteroatoms. Third generation functionalized fluorinated phthalocyanines RfAPcZn, Rf = a combination of aromatic F and alkyl i-C3F7 groups, A = –COOH, exhibit the robustness of the parent, non-functionalized RfPcZn while retaining its photophysical and singlet oxygen generating properties. We report that F48H7(COOH)PcZn can be anchored on metal oxides and that a supported photocatalyst, F48H7(COOH)PcZn-Oxide, photooxidizes a chloro alkyl thioether mainly to its sulfoxide using visible light, as shown by GC-FID and GC-MS as the primary characterizations. A comparison between a solvent-rich and solvent-free environment reveals that the complex can degrade thioethers two times faster in the former environment, while the product distribution is similar. Repeated use of the photocatalyst, indicates that the complex is intact after three runs and maintains its catalytic activity. Anchoring groups, such as –COOH, may allow the design of new, supported photocatalytic materials for nanotechnology.

Fluorine-functionalized phthalocyanines in heterogeneous catalysis

Where thousands of chemistry professionals meet to share ideas and advance scientific and technical knowledge. Spring 2023 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch at the end of March.

ACS Spring 2023

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.