Sonoelectrochemistry: Ultrasound-assisted Organic Electrosynthesis

Abstract

The application of ultrasound with electrochemistry in organic chemistry (known as organic sonoelectrochemistry) accelerates the activation process of chemical reactions. This hybrid technology enhances electrical efficiency and modifies and increases the product yield. Moreover, it facilitates the mass transfer phenomena and the processes of cleaning, degassing, and activation of the electrode surfaces; maintains higher current densities for efficient chemical transformations; and also works efficiently for mixing of reactants in multiphase systems. The ultrasound technology has a prominent effect in heterogeneous reaction systems especially during the solid (electrode)–liquid (electrolytic mixture) interfacial cavitation process. The ultrasound technology gains attention due to its fundamental and positive effect in organic chemistry to make possible the challenging electrosynthetic processes. Herein, we report the sonoelectrosynthetic methods that will help researchers to understand and apply this methodology for scale-up of processes in organic synthesis and also in more modern innovative continuous-flow organic electrochemistry. Therefore, this study will provide valuable insight into the effects caused by ultrasound-assisted electrosynthesis and how this technology revolutionizes organic synthesis. It is believed that the hybrid sonoelectrochemical synthesis serves as a solution to the limitations of the commercialization of synthetic processes and offers a new, modern aspect in organic synthesis in a clean, hassle-free, and sustainable approach.