Transition-Metal- and Photocatalyst-Free Photoinduced Formation of Carbon-Pnictogen (-N, -P) Bonds

Pnictogens, classified within group 15 elements, play a pivotal role in the constitution of a diverse array of drug molecules, natural products, and functional materials. Recent research has increasingly prioritized the exploration of mild conditions for synthesizing C-Pnictogen(C-N and C-P) bonds, highlighting a growing emphasis on efficient and sustainable synthetic methodologies. This Short Review explores fundamental mechanisms, addresses constraints, and assesses diverse methodologies, underscoring the potential of photocatalyst- and transition-metal-free photochemical reactions in advancing sustainability. Divided into two segments, it encompasses recent advancements in reactions facilitating C-N and C-P bond formation. 1 Introduction 2 Carbon-Nitrogen (C-N) Bond Formation 3 Carbon-Phosphorus (C-P) Bond Formation 4 Summary and Outlook