Cathodic oxygen-reduction-reaction-mediated active peroxide for oxidizing cyclohexanone to ε-caprolactone.

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Organic Synthesis
• Catalysis

Background:

• ε-caprolactone is a key monomer for producing biodegradable polymers like polycaprolactone.
• Efficient and selective synthesis methods are crucial for sustainable chemical production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a novel electro-thermochemical cascade reaction system for ε-caprolactone synthesis.
• To achieve high selectivity and yield using an electrode-mediated process.

Main Methods:

• Cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) to generate hydroperoxyl radicals (*OOH).
• Electrochemical oxidation of cyclohexanone mediated by *OOH.
• Utilizing a cascade reaction system for efficient synthesis.

Main Results:

• Achieved 87.5% selectivity for ε-caprolactone.
• Obtained a high yield of 198.55 µmol cm^-2 h^-1.
• The reaction proceeded efficiently at 0 V vs. RHE.

Conclusions:

• The developed system demonstrates a promising route for ε-caprolactone synthesis.
• Electrocatalytic cascade reactions offer a sustainable approach for producing valuable chemicals.
• This method highlights the potential of electrochemistry in organic synthesis.