Photochemical carbocatalysis: Fullerene-, carbon nanotube- or graphene-based metal-free photocatalysts for organic transformations

Abstract

Synthetic photochemistry is a research field, where organic transformations are promoted by the presence of photoactive species, under light irradiation. In particular, the sub-field of photoorganocatalysis, where organic molecules are used as photocatalysts, has been launched as a “green” and sustainable approach. Carbon allotrope nanostructures (CANs) and their derivatives exhibit unique photophysical and photochemical properties, which have been exploited for the preparation of efficient metal-free and sustainable photocatalytic systems. This review summarizes the progress on the field of photochemical carbocatalysis, presenting the achievements by fullerene-, carbon nanotube- and graphene-based nanomaterials. Additionally, future prospects for CAN-based nanomaterials as photochemical promoters for organic transformations are also mentioned.