C-C bond formation via photocatalytic direct functionalization of simple alkanes

The direct functionalization of alkanes represents a very important challenge in the goal to develop more atom-efficient and clean C-C bond forming reactions. These processes, however, are hampered by the low reactivity of the aliphatic C-H bonds. Photocatalytic processes based on hydrogen atom transfer C-H bond activation strategies have become a useful tool to activate and functionalize these inert compounds. In this article, we summarize the main achievements in this field applied to the development of C-C bond forming reactions, and we discuss the key mechanistic features that enable these transformations.

Automated summary

Direct functionalization of alkanes is a significant challenge in developing efficient and clean C-C bond forming reactions due to the low reactivity of aliphatic C-H bonds. Photocatalytic processes using hydrogen atom transfer C-H bond activation strategies have emerged as useful tools to activate and functionalize these inert compounds. This article summarizes the main achievements in this field for developing C-C bond forming reactions and discusses the key mechanistic features enabling these transformations.