Bis(mesitoyl)phosphinic acid: Photo-triggered release of metaphosphorous acid in solution

Bis(mesitoyl)phosphinic acid and its sodium salt display a unique photo-induced reactivity: both derivatives stepwise release two mesitoyl radicals and, remarkably, metaphosphorous acid (previously postulated as transient species in the gas phase), providing a new phosphorus-based reagent. © 2016 The Royal Society of Chemistry.