A Modular, Self-Assembling Metallaphotocatalyst for Cross Couplings Using the Full Visible-Light Spectrum

The combination of nickel- and photocatalysis has unlocked a variety of cross couplings. These protocols rely on a few photocatalysts that can only convert a small portion of visible light (<500 nm) into chemical energy. Many dyes that absorb a much broader spectrum of light are not applicable due to their short-lived excited states. Here we describe a self-assembling catalyst system that overcomes this limitation. The modular approach combines nickel catalysis with dye-sensitized titanium dioxide and can be used to catalyze various bond formations.