Product selectivity in homogeneous artificial photosynthesis using [(bpy)Rh(Cp*)X]n+-based catalysts

Abstract

Due to the limited amount of fossil energy carriers, the storage of solar energy in chemical bonds using artificial photosynthesis has been under intensive investigation within the last decades. As the understanding of the underlying working principle of these complex systems continuously grows, more focus will be placed on a catalyst design for highly selective product formation. Recent reports have shown that multifunctional photocatalysts can operate with high chemoselectivity, forming different catalysis products under appropriate reaction conditions. Within this context [(bpy)Rh(Cp*)X]n++-based catalysts are highly relevant examples for a detailed understanding of product selectivity in artificial photosynthesis since the identification of a number of possible reaction intermediates has already been achieved.