A very simple one-pot electrosynthesis of nitrones starting from nitro and aldehyde components

Abstract

The cathodic treatment of nitroarenes in the presence of aldehydes yields directly and selectively nitrones. Electrolysis can be conducted on a very simple undivided beaker-type cell under constant current conditions. The conversion tolerates multiple bonds, a variety of functional groups and heterocyclic moieties. Competing reductive conversions such as pinacolization are not observed. The green aspects of this electro-conversion are avoidance of metals, an environmentally benign solvent mixture, and stable as well as sustainable carbon electrodes.