Electrochemical catalysis of redox-neutral organic reactions

Electrochemical catalysis is a useful approach for performing redox-neutral reactions under mild conditions. Via a heterogeneous electron transfer, electrons or holes are first injected into the reactant to induce a chemical transformation. After completion of the chemical step(s), the charge can be returned to the electrode ('backward electron transfer') or initiate a chain process in solution. In both cases, only catalytic amounts of charge are required for a full conversion and conceptionally, the induced charge can be understood as a catalyst. In recent years, progress has been made in this field, both in terms of mechanistic understanding and developing new applications. The recent advances in electrochemical catalysis are summarized in this contribution.

Automated summary

Electrochemical catalysis is a valuable method for conducting redox-neutral reactions at mild conditions. It involves injecting electrons or holes into the reactant to induce chemical transformations. Recent advances have been made in understanding the mechanisms and developing new applications in this field. This contribution summarizes the recent progress in electrochemical catalysis.