The Electron: The Simplest Chemical Reagent

Abstract

In this manuscript some new aspects of electroorganic synthesis as a powerful method in organic chemistry are presented. Since the development of the Kolbe reaction in 1854 electrosynthesis has become more and more important in organic chemistry due to its following characteristics: unique selectivity because of in situ formation of an active species at the interface, inversion in polarity by transfer of electron and variability in product formation by control of potential. [2] The most dominant advantage of using this chemical reagent are its adaptability to technology and flexibility in use. The use of water or ionic liquids ­instead of toxic solvents, room temperature condition, high energy efficiency and using the electrode as electron source instead of toxic reagents are in accord with the principle of green chemistry. [3a] Using nanomaterials in the electrode and the synthesis of nanomaterials based on electrochemical polymerization are interfaces with nanotechnology. [4] The use of modified electrodes or electrochemical mediators increases product yields. [5] Also, modification with enzymes provides highest chemo-, ­regio- and stereoselectivity, which is compatible with scopes of biochemistry. [6]