Photocatalytic Synthesis of γ-Lactones from Alkenes: High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry as a Tool To Study Photoredox Reactions.

A mild photocatalytic manifold for the synthesis of γ-lactones has been developed. Utilizing Ru(bpy)3Cl2 as the photocatalyst, a cheap and reproducible synthetic protocol for γ-lactones has been introduced. Mechanistic studies revealed the successful monitoring of photocatalytic reactions and radical intermediates via high-resolution mass spectrometry.