A review on photocatalysis and nanocatalysts for advanced organic synthesis
Jyoti Bhattacharjee, Subhasis Roy
Abstract
Control of redox processes at the molecular level is central to molecular synthesis, and electrochemistry provides a unique means of directing electron flow for chemical transformations. Although the chemistry community has long recognized its power, the potential of electrochemical methods in organic synthesis has not been nearly as exploited academically or industrially. In this respect, a review related to applying nano-photocatalysts in fine chemical synthesis for producing organic compounds has been presented. The existing laboratory and industrial methods of organic synthesis are too resource-intensive, mostly based on non-renewable energy sources, and often require extreme conditions regarding temperature and pressure. In the review, we emphasize the forward organic transformations realizable with the help of such nanomaterials under UV/visible light exposure. Nanophotocatalysts thus offer huge potential for green synthesis of high-value-added organics. This review outlines a huge potential for green synthesis of high-value-added organics in nanophotocatalysts, such as graphene semiconductors, titanium oxide, quantum dots, and carbon-based catalysts. This review aims to present current research in this field and provide an impetus for helpers to further build on this area of social impact. For the first time, this all-inclusive approach helps bridge gaps between these different areas and provides a view of the potential and challenges of electro-organic photocatalysis.