The Rise of Functional Organoarsenic Chemistry

Abstract

Organoarsenic compounds have long been viewed through the lens of toxicity, yet recent advances in their synthesis, reactivity, and molecular design have begun to redefine their role in modern chemistry. This review highlights the emerging field of functional organoarsenic chemistry, which spans molecular frameworks, polymeric materials, metal coordination complexes, and reactive intermediates. Key developments include the design of π-conjugated arsole-based polymers with tunable optoelectronic properties, the construction of coordination and redox-active frameworks by harnessing the soft Lewis basicity of arsenic, and the exploitation of As(III)/As(V) redox cycles for catalysis. Furthermore, the development of arsonium-based ionic liquids and hypervalent arsenic-centered dications demonstrates the expanding versatility of arsenic across diverse chemical contexts. Collectively, these findings illustrate how arsenic’s unique electronic and structural attributes—distinct from its phosphorus congener—enable new functionalities that enrich the toolbox of molecular and materials science. The rise of functional organoarsenic chemistry represents both a revival and a reimagination of this historically overlooked element, paving the way for future applications in catalysis, photonics, sensing, and soft materials.