Direct photocatalytic C–H functionalization mediated by a molybdenum dioxo complex

Abstract

Direct photocatalytic C–H activation mediated by MoO₂Cl₂(bpy-^tBu), a unique photoactive metal OXO, is presented. The limiting step, reoxidation to the Mo dioxo, is evaluated and proposed to occur via a key Cl⁻ loss event. Photocatalyst degradation occurs upon substitution of bpy-^tBu with H₂O generated during catalysis.