Work

Repurposing First-Row Transition Metal Carbon Dioxide Reduction Electrocatalysts for Electrochemical Carboxylation of Benzyl Chloride

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is an abundant and useful C 1 feedstock for electrocarboxylation, a process that incorporates a carboxyl moiety into an organic molecule. In this work, three first-row transition metal CO 2 reduction electrocatalysts, NiPDI iPr ( 1 ), NiTPA ( 2 ), and Fe(salenCl 4 ) ( 3 ), were explored as electrocarboxylation catalysts with benzyl chloride as a substrate. The cyclic voltammograms of all three catalysts showed current enhancements in the presence of benzyl chloride under a CO 2 atmosphere. Introduction of DMAP as additives showed further current enhancement. Electrolyses with one-compartment cell generated a moderate yield of phenylacetic acid. Addition of MgBr 2 was proven to be crucial to the formation of the carboxylate product. While the yield of carboxylation was moderate, this work showed an example of electrocarboxylation of benzyl chloride without using a metal electrode or sacrificial anode, which could lead to a more sustainable carboxylation methodology.

Source: ACS Organic & Inorganic Au

DOI: 10.1021/acsorginorgau.4c00051

Authors: Pornwimon Kongkiatkrai, Thana Anusanti, Teera Chantarojsiri

Institution: Mahidol University

Language: English

Topic: CO2 Reduction Techniques and Catalysts

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,500