Hydroxyl and nitrate co-upgrading to oxime via anode-cathode cascade electrolyzer

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Organic Synthesis
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• Oximes are vital intermediates for polymers and pharmaceuticals.
• Conventional synthesis methods are energy-intensive and hazardous.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an economical and sustainable electrosynthesis route for oximes.
• To utilize hydroxyl compounds and nitrate in a cascade electrolyzer.

Main Methods:

• Dehydrogenation of hydroxyl compounds to ketones at a cobalt oxyhydroxide anode.
• Co-reduction of ketones with nitrate to form oximes at a Cu-substituted Fe3C cathode.
• Utilizing an anode-cathode cascade electrolyzer system.

Main Results:

• Achieved robust performance over 72 hours at 2.8 V.
• Obtained a high pyruvatoxime yield of 2.61 mmol cm-2 h-1.
• Reached a Faradaic efficiency of 101% with diverse feedstock compatibility.

Conclusions:

• The developed electrosynthesis method is economical and sustainable.
• The cascade electrolyzer offers a viable and cost-effective pathway for oxime production.
• This approach provides a greener alternative for essential chemical intermediates.