#Substitute for photoflow update#

Finally, continuous flow processing allows for simple reaction scale-up of the resulting photoreaction without alteration of reaction parameters and the short residence times within the photoreactor reduce the likelihood of decomposition of substrate or product due to over-radiation.Īs a consequence of the successful union of flow reactor technology with modern photochemical applications, a growing body of literature has emerged, including topical reviews by leading experts in the field. Oftentimes low-energy, tunable light sources are favored in combination with suitable cooling mechanisms to effectively control both temperature and energy input. Furthermore, by placing the light source near the reactor coil or microchip of the flow set-up, very efficient and uniform radiation of the substrate can be achieved. As such, the short path lengths provided by narrow, light-permeable tubing ensure that light can easily penetrate the substrate solution, thereby mitigating limitations commonly arising from the Beer–Lambert law. In addition, continuous flow technology has had a major impact on popularizing photochemical reactions, as it not only provides the tools to effectively perform photochemical reactions, but moreover helps overcoming limitations that are inherent to photochemistry.

#Substitute for photoflow update#

It is hoped that this report provides a valuable update on this important field of synthetic chemistry which may fuel developments in the future. A final section outlines remaining challenges and areas that will benefit from further developments in this fast-moving area. Dedicated sections present the variety of suitable reactor designs and set-ups available a short discussion on the relevance of greener and more sustainable approaches and selected key applications in the area of bioactive structures. To this end we highlight key developments in this field that have contributed to the progress achieved to date. In this focused review article, we wish to evaluate the standing of the field of continuous flow photochemistry with a specific emphasis on the generation of bioactive entities, including natural products, drugs and their precursors. Additionally, the availability of modern continuous flow reactors has enabled widespread applications in view of more streamlined and custom designed flow processes.

The last decade has witnessed a remarkable development towards improved and new photochemical transformations in response to greener and more sustainable chemical synthesis needs.