Supramolecular photocatalysis: combining confinement and non-covalent interactions to control light initiated reactions

Using non-bonding interactions to control photochemical reactions requires an understanding of not only thermodynamics and kinetics of ground state and excited state processes but also the intricate interactions that dictate the dynamics within the system of interest. This review is geared towards a conceptual understanding of how one can control the reactivity and selectivity in the excited state by employing confinement and non-covalent interactions. Photochemical reactivity of organic molecules within confined containers and organized assemblies as well as organic templates that interact through H-bonding and/or cation-carbonyl/cation-π interactions is reviewed with an eye towards understanding supramolecular effects and photocatalysis. Photocatalysis mediated by different supramolecules is reviewed with an eye towards developing tailored systems for controlling photochemical reactivity and selectivity.