Catalytic Aerobic Photooxidation of Phosphines using Four-coordinated Organoboron Compounds as Photocatalysts.

A photooxidation approach to the conversion of phosphines into the corresponding phosphine oxides is reported. By taking advantage of O2 in the air as an oxidant and oxygen source, phosphine oxides were obtained efficiently in moderate to excellent yields. A four-coordinated organoboron compound was used as the photocatalyst to activate O2 to its singlet state. This photooxidation method features mild reaction conditions, broad functional-group tolerance, and a wide substrate scope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]