Activation of small molecules by iron photo-assisted redox catalysis: some examples for the reduction of CO₂, N₂ and the creation of C-C bonds

Activation of small, inert molecules such as dinitrogen (N₂) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) is an important contemporary challenge for the production of fuels and commodity chemicals. Light-assisted molecular chemistry offers an ideal pathway towards a rational and controlled approach of the catalytic processes involved in these transformations. This paper presents some recent examples regarding the photochemical and photoelectrochemical reduction of CO₂ and N₂ with Fe molecular catalysts, as well as some recent examples for C-C coupling reactions. It illustrates the rich and burgeoning chemistry that can be explored with this metal for applications in the chemical industry and the energy sector. (authors)