Electrochemical Bromofunctionalization of Alkenes and Alkynes—To Sustainability and Beyond

Abstract

The electrochemical generation of highly reactive and hazardous bromine under controlled conditions as well as the reduction of surplus oxidizers and reagent waste has placed electrochemical synthesis in a highlighted position. In particular, the electrochemical dibromination and bromofunctionalization of alkenes and alkynes have received significant attention, as the forming of synthetically important derivatives can be generated from bench-stable and safe bromide sources under “green” conditions. Readily available and non-corrosive bromide salts have been utilized with a dual role as both a reagent and supporting electrolyte. However, this trend seems to change with the preparation of organobromine species. In this review, the electrochemical dibromination and bromofunctionalization of alkenes and alkynes was addressed in terms of their bromine sources and sustainability.

Keywords

• anode
• alkenes
• alkynes
• bromine
• electrochemistry
• oxidation