Iron photocatalysis in dual catalysis: forming C–C and C–X bonds

Abstract

In recent times, iron-based dual/photoredox catalysis has evolved as a green and sustainable approach, enabling various complex organic transformations with a broad substrate scope and good selectivity. It is a cost-effective and efficient alternative to other expensive transitional metals in visible light-mediated organic reactions. Iron complexes are more abundant, non-toxic, and have variable redox properties. They can carry out complex reactions through single or dual catalysis using various charge transfer methods, such as single-electron transfer (SET) or ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT). This review highlights the latest advancements in iron-based dual catalytic systems for making C–C and C–X bonds using mild reaction conditions. Furthermore, we discuss the role of iron within dual catalytic systems, including its mechanistic pathways. This review primarily covers studies reported between 2020 and 2025.