Photocatalytic synthesis of phenols mediated by visible light using KI as catalyst

A transition-metal-free hydroxylation of iodoarenes to afford substituted phenols is described. The reaction is promoted by KI under white LED light irradiation and uses atmospheric oxygen as oxidant. By the use of triethylamine as base and solvent, the corresponding phenols are obtained in moderate to good yields. Mechanistic studies suggest that KI and catalysis synergistically promote the cleavage of C-I bond to form free aryl radicals.