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Synthetic Photocatalysis

We use photons to break and forge bonds to build new molecules in unconventional ways.

The photon is the green reagent par excellence. It is absorbed leaving no residue and induces deep-seated chemical transformations under mild conditions. For more than a decade now modern synthesis has relied on photons to trigger previously unattainable transformations. Our group uses photoredox catalysis to unlock unprecedented synthetic approaches, mainly relying on photocatalyzed Hydrogen-Atom Transfer (HAT), Single-Electron Transfer (SET) and Halogen-Atom Transfer (XAT). Besides traditional batch approaches, our group harnesses the benefits of flow chemistry to boost the abovementioned transformations in terms of efficiency and scalability.

Photocatalysis

Using light to create molecules

Light-mediated methodology

Shining light on new disconnections

Photocatalysis

Using light to create molecules

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Representative publications:

E. Cassera, V. Martini, V. Morlacci, S. Abrami, N. Della Ca’, D Ravelli, M. Fagnoni, L. Capaldo “A Decarbonylative Strategy to Enhance Efficiency and Regioselectivity in Photocatalyzed Hydrogen-Atom Transfer” JACS Au 2025, DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.5c00530
L. Capaldo, T. Wan, R. Mulder, J. Djossou, T. Noël “Visible Light-Induced Halogen-Atom Transfer by N-Heterocyclic Carbene-Ligated Boryl Radicals for Diastereoselective C (sp3)–C (sp2) Bond Formation” Chem. Sci. 2024, 15, 14844-14850, DOI: 10.1039/D4SC02962C
T. Wan, L. Ciszenski, D. Ravelli, L. Capaldo “Photoinduced Intermolecular Radical Hydroalkylation of Olefins via Ligated Boryl Radicals-Mediated Halogen Atom Transfer” Org. Lett. 2024, 26, 5839-5843, DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.4c02034