Advances in Electrochemical Hydroxylation Reactions: Mechanistic Understanding and Synthetic Opportunities

Abstract

Electrochemical hydroxylation reactions have provided new insights into reaction diversity and mechanistic pathways. These reactions, essential for functionalizing hydrocarbons, exhibit impressive selectivity and efficiency under mild conditions. Various catalytic systems, including transition-metal-free and metal-based catalysts, electrophotocatalytic, and electrochemical continuous flow method have been developed to enhance reactivity and overcome challenges such as C-H activation. Mechanistic studies reveal intricate electron transfer and radical intermediates, offering a deeper understanding of reaction dynamics. This review highlights the last five years developments in electrochemical alkyl and aryl hydroxylation, focusing on the diversity of reactions, and key mechanistic insights driving these transformations.