Thioxanthone: a powerful photocatalyst for organic reactions

Photoorganocatalysis has been recognised by the organic chemistry community as an important part of photochemistry and catalysis. In general, aromatic ketones constitute key players in this type of catalysis as they are involved in a plethora of examples in the literature. Among the various aromatic ketones, thioxanthone (TX) seems to play a unique role in photochemistry. In comparison with other aromatic ketones, TX has a high triplet energy and a relatively long triplet lifetime, while it has the ability to participate successfully in merger reactions with metal complexes. In this review, we will discuss the photophysical properties of this small organic molecule, as well as the numerous examples of photochemical reactions, where it is employed as a mediator and more specifically in polymerisation reactions, and organic transformations.

Automated summary

Photoorganocatalysis is recognized as an important aspect of photochemistry and catalysis in organic chemistry, with aromatic ketones playing a significant role. Thioxanthone (TX) stands out for its unique properties in photochemistry, with high triplet energy and long triplet lifetime, making it effective in merger reactions with metal complexes. This review discusses the photophysical properties of TX and its applications in various photochemical reactions, particularly in polymerization and organic transformations.