Hydroxyl radical-dominated selective oxidation of ethylbenzene over a photoactive polyoxometalate-based metal-organic framework.

Realizing photo-promoted saturated C-H functionalization is a significant challenge. [Cu I 3 (H 2 O) 6 (TPT) 2 ][H 2 BW 12 O 40 ]·28H 2 O was assembled by combining electron reservoir [BW 12 O 40 ] 5- with photosensitizer TPT. The continuous coordination bonds and π-π stacking interactions facilitate hole-electron separation and electron transfer, and allow it to exhibit high photocatalytic activity toward ethylbenzene oxidation with O 2 /H 2 O as oxidants.