Thiol–Ene (Click) Reactions as Efficient Tools for Terpene Modification

Abstract

AbstractThis Focus Review highlights the application of thiol–ene (click) chemistry to the production of a diverse range of materials that are derived from terpenes. To present an overview concerning the potency of terpenes as renewable resources, recent advances in their development by using synthetic organic chemistry are initially discussed. In addition, the use of thiol–ene chemistry as an efficient approach and versatile tool for noncatalytic carbon−heteroatom bond formation is briefly presented, including mechanistic and kinetic aspects, as well as some structural considerations, that is, the influence of the thiol and olefin structures, which should be well‐thought‐out before applying such chemistry. This discussion also covers how an initiator works and its effect on the reaction rate. Moreover, the utilization of thiol–ene reactions for the synthesis of terpene‐based valuable platform chemicals, monomers, and polymers, including recent examples that demonstrate its broad utility, are highlighted.