Catalyst- and Additive-Free Electrochemical CO₂ Fixation into Morita–Baylis–Hillman Acetates

Abstract

The electrochemical carboxylation of Morita–Baylis–Hillman (MBH) acetates with CO₂ is presented. The process proceeds in the absence of transition-metal catalysts and relies on the cathodic reduction of MBH acetates to generate nucleophilic anions that are able to trap low-pressure CO₂. Valuable succinate derivatives are obtained (20 examples) in high yields (up to 90%) and with excellent functional group tolerance. A remarkable substrate-controlled (electronic nature) regioselectivity of the transformation is documented along with a mechanistic rationale based on control experiments.

Key words

electrosynthesis - carbon dioxide - MBH acetates - cathodic reduction - catalyst-free

Publication History

Received: 23 December 2022

Accepted after revision: 06 February 2023

Accepted Manuscript online:
06 February 2023

Article published online:
28 March 2023

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