In situ palladium-doped conjugated polymer network for visible light and natural sunlight-driven Suzuki type cross-coupling reaction at room temperature†

Abstract

Here, we describe the direct exploitation of visible light energy by using a conjugated polymer network (CPN) that is susceptible to an in situ loading of Pd metal for photocatalytic Suzuki-type C–C cross-coupling reaction. The requisite products were quantitatively achieved (yield >90%), under photo-illumination using an environment-friendly solvent. Under normal solar light, similar catalytic activity was maintained using the same experimental conditions. To comprehend the function of every variable and reactive species involved in the reaction's path, in-depth mechanistic studies were carried out. It is further underlined that the CPN has greater catalytic efficiency based on its exceptional resistance to 50 substrates of varying functionality, for 5 consecutive catalyst recycling cycles as well as bulk-scale reactions and a turnover frequency value of up to 1840 h⁻¹ at a low catalyst dose of Pd (0.0125 mol%), while maintaining its catalytic efficacy. Its catalytic competence in terms of scope, scalability, environmental friendliness, and sustainability supports its proficiency.