Transitioning aliphatic C–H functionalization from bench to plant: Is decatungstate photocatalysis ready for the leap yet?

The decatungstate (DT) anion has emerged as a widely adopted photocatalyst for the functionalization of aliphatic C–H bonds, primarily through hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) processes. Its unique reactivity has enabled a broad array of transformations, including deuteration, oxygenation, amination, fluorination, and cross-coupling reactions, which have been comprehensively documented in several recent reviews. Although DT is often described as a powerful and enabling photocatalyst, its translation beyond laboratory-scale applications remains limited. Drawing on our direct experience with DT-mediated transformations, and conducting in-depth bibliographic research, we critically analyze the key challenges that currently hinder the adoption of DT photocatalysis in large-scale chemistry. Recent technological advances aimed at addressing these limitations are also discussed, with the objective of identifying experimental factors that might be decisive for future implementation in process chemistry.