Electrochemical generation and utilization of alkoxy radicals.

This highlight summarises electrochemical approaches for the generation and utilization of alkoxy radicals, predominantly focusing on recent advances (2012-present). The application of electrochemically generated alkoxy radicals in a diverse range of transformations is described, including discussion on reaction mechanisms, scope and limitations, in addition to highlighting future challenges in this burgeoning area of sustainable synthesis.

Deconstructive Functionalization of Unstrained Cycloalkanols via Electrochemically Generated Aromatic Radical Cations.

Herein we report an electrochemical approach for the deconstructive functionalization of cycloalkanols, where various alcohols, carboxylic acids, and N-heterocycles are employed as nucleophiles. The method has been demonstrated across a broad range of cycloalkanol substrates, including various ring sizes and substituents, to access useful remotely functionalized ketone products (36 examples). The method was demonstrated on a gram scale via single-pass continuous flow, which exhibited increased productivity in relation to the batch process.