Super-reducing photoredox catalyst paves a new way for arene reduction

A researcher is at a fume hood setting up a reaction using LED lamps

Source: © John Cline/Colorado State University Photography

Bio-inspired catalyst can reduce arenes without the need for harsh conditions

Researchers in the US have looked to biology to develop an anionic organic photocatalyst that can reduce arenes with visible light at room temperature. This super-reducing catalyst makes such reactions safer, cuts reaction times and could be expanded to other hard-to-reduce compounds.