Heterobinuclear Metallocomplexes as Photocatalysts in Organic Synthesis

Abstract

Photocatalytic processes under visible light have constantly been finding more and more applications in organic synthesis as they allow a wide range of transformations to proceed under mild conditions. The combination of photoredox catalysis with metal complex catalysis gives an opportunity to employ the advantages of these two methodologies. Covalent bonding of photocatalyst and metal complex catalyst using bridging ligands increases the efficiency of the electron and energy transfer between these two parts of the catalyst, leading to more efficient and selective catalytic systems. Up to now, after numerous investigations of the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 and hydrogen generation, such a strategy was firmly established to substantially increase the catalyst’s activity. This review is aimed at the achievements and perspectives in the field of design and application of heterobinuclear metal complexes as photocatalysts in organic synthesis.