Photosensitized singlet oxygen and its applications

The study of singlet molecular oxygen production and reactivity has emerged as a rich and diverse area with implications in fields ranging from polymer science to cancer therapy. In this review, we address the photophysical properties of singlet oxygen and of the photosensitizers used in its generation. Photosensitizers based on organic molecules and coordination compounds are examined and compared. Recent advances in the photosensitized production of singlet oxygen and its uses in photochemistry and photobiology are highlighted, with particular focus on its role in wastewater treatment, fine chemical synthesis, and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Future directions in photosensitizer development and singlet oxygen applications are also explored. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.