Site-selectivity in TBADT-photocatalyzed C(sp3)–H Functionalization of Saturated Alcohols and Alkanes

Site-selectivity in C(sp3)–H functionalization of aliphatic alcohols and alkanes was studied using the decatungstate anion as a photocatalyst. In the case of aliphatic alcohols, C–H bond α to the hydroxy group was preferentially functionalized. The α-site-selectivity is rationalized by polar effects imparted by the hydroxy group in the SH2 transition states. In contrast, C–H functionalization of alkanes was largely affected by steric effects.