The recent development of photoredox catalysis has revolutionized the means of performing organic transformations by allowing the utilisation of visible light as energy source for reactive organic radical generations and to exploit them as tools for smooth construction of organic molecules under mild conditions. This project proposes the design and synthesis of novel photocatalysts by an unrepresented bioinspired approach, based on stabilized semiquinones. The development work relies on synthetic work performed in University of Helsinki, in collaborations with Tampere University for photophysical studies, and quantum mechanical and machine leaning studies carried out together with a research group in Zaragoza University (Spain). The novel concept is expected to deliver a new generation of reaction specific photocatalysts able to promote efficient electroneutral reactions performed sustainably without oxidants or reductants or other additives.

2023

2027