Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) compounds in energy transfer processes. A general alternative to metal-based complexes

Abstract

Recently, TADF (thermally activated delayed fluorescence) compounds have expanded their role beyond materials chemistry, enriching the field of photocatalysis and offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to classical metal-based complexes. However, while their role in photoredox catalysis is well-established, research on their use in EnT reactions is sparse. In this tutorial review, we discuss and summarise the observed reactivity trends for some leading families of TADF compounds. Further, we examine their structure–property relationships and explore the development of synthetic methods for greener, more sustainable protocols in which TADF molecules serve as crucial catalytic systems.