Electrochemical approaches to the synthesis of silicon-containing polymers

Abstract

This review explores the advancements and potential of electrochemical methods in the synthesis of silicon-containing polymers (mainly polysilanes and silicones), a critical area of organosilicon chemistry. Traditional widely used silicon-containing polymers production methods face significant challenges due to the reliance on organochlorine compounds, which are hazardous to handle and pose environmental risks. Electrochemical approaches offer a promising alternative, providing greater control over reaction conditions, minimizing the formation of by-products, and enabling the use of more environmentally friendly precursors. This review highlights the various electrochemical techniques applied in the synthesis of polysilanes and silicones, including both oxidative and reductive processes. It also discusses the potential for these methods to address existing limitations in silicon-containing polymers production, such as high energy consumption and complex purification steps. Furthermore, the review highlights the direct electrochemical functionalization of silicon dioxide SiO₂ as a particularly underexplored area, presenting a significant opportunity for future research. The integration of electrochemical methods in silicon-containing polymers synthesis not only aligns with the goals of green chemistry but also opens up new avenues for industrial applications, promising more sustainable and efficient production pathways.