Heterogeneous Photocatalytic Hydrogenative Reactions Using Liquid Hydrogen Donors: Mechanisms, Catalysts Design, and Applications

Heterogeneous photocatalysis is a promising approach for a wide range of hydrogenative reactions owing to the mild reaction conditions and the possibility of employing liquid hydrogen donors. Currently, the major interest is focused on the development of high performance photocatalyst materials and the expansion of reaction scope. An overview from a perspective of hydrogen donor and thus the related mechanistic understanding of the light-induced hydrogenative reactions is rare. Here, we have categorized the photocatalytic hydrogenative reactions by the type of employed liquid hydrogen donors (hydrocarbons and water), discussed the basic criteria of hydrogen abstraction from these donors, and elaborated the design strategy of the photocatalyst materials.

Automated summary

Heterogeneous photocatalysis is a promising method for hydrogenative reactions due to its mild reaction conditions and the use of liquid hydrogen donors. The current focus is on developing high-performance photocatalyst materials and expanding the range of reactions. However, there is a lack of overview on the mechanistic understanding of light-induced hydrogenative reactions from the perspective of hydrogen donors. In this study, we categorized photocatalytic hydrogenative reactions based on the type of liquid hydrogen donors (hydrocarbons and water), discussed the criteria for hydrogen abstraction from these donors, and elaborated on the design strategy of photocatalyst materials.