Photocatalytic hydrogen-evolution dimerization of styrenes to synthesize 1,2-dihydro-1-arylnaphthalene derivatives using Acr+-Mes and cobaloxime catalysts

By combining Acr+-Mes and cobaloxime catalysts, hydrogen-evolution dimerization of styrenes has been achieved without the use of oxidants or HAT reagents. This reaction proceeds smoothly under mild conditions, and the sole byproduct is hydrogen gas.