A process for extracting polyester from an article using a solvent system using a compound according to Formula I is described, where ##STR00001##
wherein R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently selected from: hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl or alkoxy groups; R.sub.3 to R.sub.12 are each independently selected from: hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl or alkoxy groups; and each of a to e is a carbon atom, wherein the total linear chain length of a-b-c-d-e is in the range of 2 to 5 carbons.

Described are methods for preparing a deuterated aldehyde using with a photocatalyst and a hydrogen atom transfer agent in a H.sub.2O free solvent comprising D.sub.2O and an organic solvent under an inert gas. The methods may be used to convert a wide variety of aldehydes (e.g., aryl, alkyl, or alkenyl aldehydes) to C-1 deuterated aldehydes under mild reaction conditions.

Described are methods for preparing a deuterated aldehyde using with a photocatalyst and a hydrogen atom transfer agent in a H.sub.2O free solvent comprising D.sub.2O and an organic solvent under an inert gas. The methods may be used to convert a wide variety of aldehydes (e.g., aryl, alkyl, or alkenyl aldehydes) to C-1 deuterated aldehydes under mild reaction conditions.