Recent advances in electrochemical utilization of NHPI esters

Abstract

Electrochemical methods employing N-hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) esters have emerged as powerful tools for sustainable organic synthesis. Derived from abundant and stable alkyl carboxylic acids, NHPI esters enable the generation of alkyl radicals through single-electron transfer (SET) and decarboxylation, facilitating carbon–carbon (C–C) and carbon–heteroatom (C–X) bond formation. These reactions are vital for synthesizing complex molecules used in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and advanced materials, yet traditional approaches often depend on harsh conditions, toxic reagents, or costly metals. This review explores recent progress in electrochemical applications of NHPI esters, highlighting their role in both metal-catalyzed (e.g., Ni, Cr) and metal-free systems.