Singlet Oxygen in Practice — Present State and Prospects

Abstract

The chemistry of singlet oxygen has been rapidly developing ever since its discovery in the sixties. Nevertheless, the progress in utilization of singlet oxygen is relatively recent. In organic synthesis, singlet oxygen has been used in preparation of novel compounds. Photodynamic therapy of cancer and of some other diseases advanced due to novel specifically acting porphyrinoid sensitizers approved for clinical use. The sensitizers producing singlet oxygen are a promising alternative to inactivation of microorganisms resistant to antibiotics and can also be employed in blood disinfection or water treatment. Photodynamic pesticides are environment-friendly due to the absence of side effects. The use of the chemical oxygen-iodine laser based on singlet oxygen is envisaged in defence systems against ballistic missiles. The harmful effects of singlet oxygen on biological materials, polymers, dyes and textile fibres are briefly discussed.