Electrochemically driven silicon–carbon bond cleavage of silacyclobutanes: a transition metal-free approach

Abstract

Recent advances in noble-metal-catalyzed SCB ring-opening have enabled efficient access to structurally diverse silyl ethers and silanol frameworks. However, reliance on precious transition-metal catalysts and their associated environmental and economic drawbacks limits the sustainability of these methods. In this study, we report the first environmentally friendly electrochemical approach for the preparation of silyl ethers and silanols from silacyclobutanes (SCBs) under mild conditions. This protocol is notable for its metal-free nature, broad substrate compatibility, and 100% atom economy, offering an efficient strategy for Si–O bond formation. Notably, the synthetic applicability of the method is further demonstrated by its scalability. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggest the involvement of a convergent paired electrolysis process.