A photosensitizing decatungstate-based MOF as heterogeneous photocatalyst for the selective C-H alkylation of aliphatic nitriles.

The efficient photosensitizing of decatungstate-based MOF with 1D channels was achieved via in situ synthesis under solvothermal conditions for light driven acceleration of β- or γ-site C-H alkylation of aliphatic nitriles. The high catalytic efficiency, excellent size selectivity, high stability and good recyclability of the photocatalyst offer an environmentally-friendly route for widening the scope of accessible nitriles in both laboratory and industry.