Visible-light-promoted Decarboxylation of Carboxylic Acids by A Supramolecular Complex Based on Ruthenium(II) and Copper(II)

摘要

A supramolecular complex containing one ruthenium(II) center (Ru_(chro)~(II)) and two copper(II) centers (Cu_(cat)~(II)) has been prepared facilely. The complex was employed for decarboxylation of carboxylic acids with molecular oxygen (O_2) under visible-light irradiation, resulting in aldehydes. The photocatalytic reactions proceeded successfully in the presence of O_2 without extra sacrificial reagents. It was found that an electron transfer from excited state of chromophore Ru_(chro)~(II*) to Cu_(cat)~(II) occurred along with generation of Cu_(cat)~I which was further activated by O_2. These results demonstrate a promising strategy for photocatalytic reactions using supramolecular complexes in the presence of O_2.