Intramolecular and intermolecular benzannulation of arylethanone derivatives enabled by visible light-induced catalytic generation of tether-tunable distonic radical anions

A novel method enables inter-/intramolecular benzannulation to synthesize PAHs have been disclosed. Experimental and DFT data confirm the TDRA's role in the HAA step of enolized 1,3-dicarbonyls via asynchronous PCET.