Unsymmetric α,ω-Diol Oxidation into Aliphatic Hydroxyaldehydes: Active Organic Intermediates with Exceptionally High Value

. The absence of aggressive oxygen-based radical species, appropriately controlled oxidation capacity of photogenerated holes, low affinity of hydroxyaldehyde for photocatalysts in the suitable acetonitrile solvent matrix, and fine-tuned reaction temperature ensure that the oxidation of 1,6-hexanediol terminates at 6-hydroxyhexanal. This work reports on a conceptual breakthrough in photocatalytic interface design for high-value-added molecular synthesis via controlled surface redox reactions.