Using light to control the inhibition of Karstedt's catalyst

Abstract

Hydrosilylation reactions are commonly used in the coating industry but the high activity of the platinum catalysts diminishes the ‘pot life’ of the reagents, and poses a serious industrial problem. In this communication, we illustrate a method for controlling the activity of these catalysts by using light as an external stimulant to turn ‘off’ a small molecule inhibitor, and activate the catalyst.