Organo‐Soluble Colloidal MoS2 Quantum Dots (QDs) as an Efficient Photocatalyst for α‐Amino Phosphonate Synthesis

Abstract

Abstractα‐Amino phosphonates are bio‐isosteres of amino acids and have numerous biochemical activities. While they are generally prepared via carbon–phosphorus bond formation using a plethora of methods but using recyclable photo‐catalysts and readily accessible amine and phosphites are not commonly used in synthesis. Herein, we used organo‐soluble MoS2 Quantum Dots (QDs) as an exceptionally efficient nano‐photocatalyst for the synthesis of α‐amino phosphonates. Our approach emphasizes on photocatalysis within organic media, providing a facile and effective method for conducting these intricate organic conversions under mild conditions. This straightforward process harnesses the power of molecular oxygen (O2) as an oxidizing agent. To elaborate, our method is intricately guided by the inherent capability of MoS2 QDs to enter an excited state upon absorption of blue light. This excited state bears appropriate potential energy to initiate the formation of reactive iminium ion species from N‐phenyl benzylamine, thus driving the desired product formation. Mechanistic analysis has also unveiled the pivotal role of MoS2 QDs in generating reactive superoxide radicals from O2 through single electron transfer (SET), underscoring their significance in the process. Remarkably, this photocatalytic transformation furnishes a diverse array of functionalized products, expanding its applicability and potential implications in various contexts.