Diblock Copolypeptoid Micelles as Platform for Aqueous Photoredox Cyanation of Arenes

Micellar catalysis offers a sustainable and effective alternative to traditional systems. This study introduces a micellar platform based on the amphiphilic diblock copolypeptoid poly(<i>N</i>-methyl glycine)-<i>block</i>-poly(<i>N</i>-n-propyl glycine) for direct arene cyanation in water. The polymer was used to encapsulate the photoredox catalyst 3,6-di-<i>tert</i>-butyl-9-mesityl-10-phenylacridinium tetrafluoroborate (Mes-Acr-Ph⁺), forming core-shell nanostructures, as confirmed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM). Under visible light irradiation, micellar core confinement activates the catalytic performance of Mes-Acr-Ph⁺, enabling selective C-H cyanation of diverse arenes in water. Recycling experiments demonstrate the stability and reusability of the micelles, highlighting their potential for scalable photoredox applications. This strategy advances aqueous photoredox catalysis by addressing longstanding challenges in catalyst solubility, reactivity, aggregation, close proximity, and reaction control.