Electrochemical Method: A Green Approach for the Synthesis of Organic Compounds

Abstract

Background: Heterocyclic compounds have gained attention due to their growing demand against various infectious diseases, but their synthesis with hazardous chemicals, costly catalysts, and costly purification methods encourage researchers to explore alternative sources. The electrochemical method offers a powerful and versatile approach for assembling different heterocyclic structures. Moreover, it gives a highly proficient and green methodology that avoids harmful oxidants and reductants. Objective: In this review, we aim to compile the different types of reactions i.e., Curtin- Hammet, Michael addition, Wittig reaction, Henry, Diels-Alder, Friedel-crafts, Kolbe, Heck, Benzoin condensation reaction taking place in case of electrochemical synthesis in the last 3 years from 2017-2020. So, to the best of our knowledge, after 2017, there is no such report present that can explain the present scenario in the field of electrochemical synthesis. So this encouraged us to write a review on this interesting topic. Result: From this study, we concluded that the electrochemical methods provide a green and proficient methodology for radical intermediate’s age utilizing electrons as traceless reagents, which could avoid the use of harmful oxidants and reductants.