Abstract
The development of sustainable, metal-free photocatalysts that combine
homogeneous reactivity with effective recyclability remains a key
challenge in photoredox catalysis. Here, we report a series of
rationally designed polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) tailored
for visible light-driven photoredox reactions. Using a multidisciplinary
approach by integrating in silico predictions, photophysical and
materials characterization, and a series of benchmarking studies, we
establish these PIMs as highly effective photocatalysts with broad
applicability across diverse photoredox reactions, including Minisci
reactions, aryl amination, trifluoromethylation, radical sulfonylation,
and dual Ni-catalyzed C–N, C–C, and C–S couplings. We further evaluate
multiple recycling strategies, including precipitation, heterogeneous
coating, and homogeneous recovery by nanofiltration. The PIM catalysts
exhibit near-complete retention in nanofiltration, enabling the
development of a continuous-flow reaction–separation system with in-line
catalyst recovery and real-time process monitoring. This work
establishes a platform for tunable, scalable, and recyclable
photocatalysis and provides a blueprint for sustainable continuous-flow
fine chemical manufacturing.