Iron-Catalyzed C–C Single-Bond Cleavage of Alcohols

An iron-catalyzed deconstruction/hydrogenation reaction of alcohols through C–C bond cleavage is developed through photocatalysis, to produce ketones or aldehydes as the products. Tertiary, secondary, and primary alcohols bearing a wide range of substituents are suitable substrates. Complex natural alcohols can also perform the transformation selectively. A investigation of the mechanism reveals a procedure that involves chlorine radical improved O–H homolysis, with the assistance of 2,4,6-collidine.