Visible light-driven chemistry of diaryliodonium reagents: mechanistic perspectives and synthetic applications

Diaryliodonium reagents (DAIRs) are highly electrophilic arylating agents widely utilized in organic synthesis, excelling in both metal-free and metal-catalyzed transformations. However, their reactivity and application as aryl radical precursors under visible-light irradiation remain relatively underexplored. Due to their easy availability, intrinsic reactivity, stability, and environmentally benign nature, they are promising candidates to serve as aryl radical surrogates in various visible light-induced synthetic transformations. In this feature article, we have reviewed our recent findings alongside other significant reports on the utility of DAIRs under visible-light irradiation. We have discussed the diverse reactivity of DAIRs in a palette of visible light-mediated reactions leading to the construction of carbon–carbon or carbon–heteroatom bonds. In addition, their role as atom transfer agents, including hydrogen atom transfer and halogen atom transfer, has also been discussed.