Development of Novel Molecular Transformation Reactions Using Iodine Driven by Photochemical Activation

Abstract

Effective use of the light that surrounds us is the hottest research topic in all fields, including the energy field. Light is the means by which reactions occur, and can be thought of as a “type of reagent.” Since light has no shape or weight, it is a clean substance that does not leave any residue, and can be one of the most important methods for investigating processes that reduce environmental impact. Against this background, the authors have been conducting research aiming at the development of novel molecular transformation reactions driven by photochemical activation of representative elements. In this study, we focused on iodine, which is easy to handle, has low toxicity, and is highly responsive to visible light. That is to say, iodine and carbon-iodine bonds readily respond to light energy as small as visible light and undergo bond cleavage to generate radical species. By applying this phenomenon to fine organic synthesis reactions, the authors have succeeded in developing a methodology for easily synthesizing compounds such as phenacyl halides, cyclopropanes, and lactones, which have high industrial value, from light energy and inexpensive raw materials.