Boron-doped TiO2 (B-TiO2): visible-light photocatalytic difunctionalization of alkenes and alkynes

Boron-doped TiO2 (B-TiO2) was prepared, characterized, and successfully applied as a reusable, inexpensive, available, and heterogeneous nanophotocatalyst under visible light for a novel method of construction of phenacyl thiocyanate compounds from double or triple bonds. Impressive aspects of this project are obtaining the desired compounds in a short time, using a renewable energy source, and using a catalyst with easy extraction that is solvent-safe, and without the use of any oxidants, bases, and ligands, or harsh conditions. This is the first report of the construction of phenacyl thiocyanates through this photocatalytic method under visible light.

Automated summary

The boron-doped TiO2 (B-TiO2) was prepared and characterized as a reusable and inexpensive heterogeneous nanophotocatalyst for constructing phenacyl thiocyanate compounds from double or triple bonds under visible light. Key aspects of this project include fast compound formation, renewable energy source usage, solvent-safe catalyst extraction, and absence of oxidants, bases, or harsh conditions.