Selective Cleavage of C_β-O-4 Bond for Lignin Depolymerization via Paired-Electrolysis in an Undivided Cell

The cleavage of C-O bonds is one of the most promising strategies for lignin-to-chemicals conversion, which has attracted considerable attention in recent years. However, current catalytic system capable of selectively breaking C-O bonds in lignin often requires a precious metal catalyst and/or harsh conditions such as high-pressure H₂ and elevated temperatures. Herein, we report a novel protocol of paired electrolysis to effectively cleave the C_β-O-4 bond of lignin model compounds and real lignin at room temperature and ambient pressure. For the first time, "cathodic hydrogenolysis of C_β-O-4 linkage" and "anodic C-H/N-H cross-coupling reaction" are paired in an undivided cell, thus the cleavage of C-O bonds and the synthesis of valuable triarylamine derivatives could be simultaneously achieved in an energy-effective manner. This protocol features mild reaction conditions, high atom economy, remarkable yield with excellent chemoselectivity, and feasibility for large-scale synthesis. Mechanistic studies indicate that indirect H* (chemical absorbed hydrogen) reduction instead of direct electron transfer might be the pathway for the cathodic hydrogenolysis of C_β-O-4 linkage.