Flash Electrochemical Approach to Carbocations

A novel flow electrochemical reactor that accomplishes electrolysis within a few seconds in a single passage was developed. By using the flow reactor system, the flash electrochemical generation of short-lived carbocations, including oxocarbenium ions, N-acyliminium ions, glycosyl cations, and Ferrier cations was achieved within a few seconds, enabling the subsequent reaction with nucleophiles before their decomposition. Moreover, continuous operation based on the present system enabled the rapid synthesis of pharmaceutical precursors on demand.

Automated summary

A novel flow electrochemical reactor has been developed to achieve electrolysis within a few seconds and enable reaction with nucleophiles before the decomposition of short-lived carbocations. Furthermore, continuous operation based on this system allows for rapid synthesis of pharmaceutical precursors on demand.