Concepts for Sustainable Organic Electrosynthesis

Abstract

Organic electrosynthesis is frequently presented as an intrinsically sustainable, safe, and efficient method [1]. While this is indeed often the case, this assessment cannot be easily generalized, since several challenges need to be addressed on the way to more efficient and truly sustainable processes. These challenges comprise the necessity for employing large amounts of supporting electrolyte additives along with concomitant separation and waste issues [2]. Another separation problem arises when mediators have to be employed for controlling the selectivity [3]. In addition, highly flammable and toxic solvents are often used.The present contribution will provide an overview of our recent work on the development of new approaches toward improving the practicality and sustainability of electro-organic reactions. Several concepts will be discussed, including polymediator-guided electrosynthesis [4], multi-functional supporting electrolytes [5], and electrolysis in sustainable solvents [6].