Visible-Light-Mediated Synthesis of Ketones by the Oxidative Alkylation of Styrenes.

The oxidative coupling of photogenerated alkyl radicals with readily available styrenes is disclosed. This visible-light-mediated method allows rapid access to a wide range of α-alkyl-acetophenones in good yields and with high functional group tolerance. In addition, the developed protocol features room temperature conditions, low photocatalyst loadings, and the use of dimethyl sulfoxide as nontoxic and mild terminal oxidant.