Phenylsulfonate as a photolabile group for intramolecular carbon-carbon cross-coupling reactions

Efficient cyclization reactions play a pivotal role in the synthesis of extended polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and graphene nanoribbons. Although efficient reactions have been developed, a simple yet versatile method that is compatible with most functional groups is still lacking. Herein, we report the use of phenylsulfonates as a photolabile group to generate aryl radicals that undergo a radical cyclization reaction to produce triphenylene derivatives. The phenylsulfonate group proves to be a highly adaptable and robust photolabile group, and compatible with Suzuki cross-coupling conditions. Kinetic and optimization experiments have been conducted, shedding light on the potential of this reaction as a versatile tool for the synthesis of PAHs.