C(sp 3 )–H functionalizations of light hydrocarbons using decatungstate photocatalysis in flow

Using hydrocarbons as reagents Adding small alkyl groups to complex molecules usually relies on alkyl halide reagents. Laudadio et al. now report a convenient method to add ethane and propane directly across conjugated olefins with no prefunctionalization or byproducts (see the Perspective by Oksdath-Mansilla). The C–H bond scission in this hydroalkylation is accomplished by a decatungstate photocatalyst that also acts as a hydrogen atom transfer agent to complete the process. The reaction, optimized under flow conditions, works with methane as well, albeit with lower efficiency. Science , this issue p. 92 ; see also p. 34