Photocatalytic synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine via C(sp)3-H functionalization using ethylarene as a sustainable surrogate of acetophenone and luminescence studies

Abstract

A metal-free method for synthesizing imidazopyridine utilizing ethylarene, 2-aminopyridine, and NBS under visible light using Eosin-Y as a photocatalyst has been developed. This technique effectively transforms ethylbenzene and aminopyridine into desirable products, and it also employs catalytic amounts of the halogenating agent, which is continuously regenerated. This approach is suitable for biologically active compounds with luminescent properties due to its high atom efficiency, metal-free nature, environmental friendliness, and use of visible light as a renewable energy source.