Divergent Synthesis in Synthetic Organic Electrochemistry: Key Controlling Factors

Abstract

Divergent synthesis, which enables the generation of multiple structurally distinct products from similar starting materials, represents a powerful strategy for building molecular complexity. A fundamental challenge in this field lies in the predictable control over competing reaction pathways. Synthetic organic electrochemistry, utilizing electron as a traceless redox reagent, offers a uniquely tunable platform to address this challenge by introducing an additional dimension of control through electrode-mediated electron transfer. This review adopts traditional and electrochemical parameters as two variable frameworks to systematically examine the influence of multiple specific variables on reaction selectivity. Through in depth analysis of characterization results and theoretical calculations, the logical relationship between variables and selectivity is revealed, leading to a core framework of key design principles. The review also addresses green chemistry metrics and practical considerations, and highlights current challenges and future directions in divergent electrosynthesis, offering valuable perspectives for the rational exploration of sustainable synthetic routes toward functional molecules.