EDA photochemistry: Mechanistic investigations and future opportunities

Summary

Recently, organic synthesis has seen a renaissance in radical chemistry due to the accessibility of mild methods for radical generation using visible light. While the renewed interest in synthetic radical chemistry has been driven by the advent of photoredox catalysis, a resurgence of electron donor-acceptor (EDA) photochemistry has also led to many new radical transformations. Similar to photoredox catalysis, EDA photochemistry involves light-promoted single-electron transfer pathways. However, the mechanism of electron transfer in EDA systems is unique wherein the lifetimes of radical intermediates are often shorter due to competitive back-electron transfer. Distinguishing between EDA and photoredox mechanisms can be challenging because they can form identical products. In this perspective, we seek to provide insight into the mechanistic studies that can distinguish between EDA and photoredox manifolds. Additionally, we highlight some key challenges in EDA photochemistry and suggest future goals that could advance the synthetic potential of this field of research.