Transition Copper-Modified Iron Foam Electrode as a Green and New Method for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction for the Synthesis of Benzyl 3-Phenylpropiolate Derivatives Under Electro-Oxidation Reaction Conditions Using NaCl

This research explores the application of electrocatalytic oxidation in the reduction of CO₂ for the synthesis of benzyl 3-phenylpropiolate derivatives, involving phenylacetylene 1(a–e), carbon dioxide 2a, and benzyl chloride 3(a–j) under electro-oxidation reaction conditions with sodium chloride (NaCl), utilizing highly efficient catalysts, specifically graphite rod and Cu-modified Fe foam. NaCl serves as an inexpensive and readily available reagent in the roles of electrolyte, cocatalyst, and activator for copper metal. Phenylpropiolate derivatives are crucial in generating a wide range of products in agricultural chemicals, versatile industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other industries. The utilization of electrocatalysis represents an environmentally sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional methods, highlighting its potential impact on organic synthesis. The noteworthy efficiency exhibited by the graphite rod and Cu-modified Fe foam catalysts emphasizes their crucial role in advancing the field of organic chemistry. This study not only offers a promising path towards the creation of efficient and environmentally friendly methods for synthesizing benzyl 3-phenylpropiolate derivatives 5(a–j) using isopropyl alcohol (iPrOH) as a solvent, with a reaction time of 30 min, a counter current of 20 mA, all conducted at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, yielding high percentages (91%–95%), but also details the fabrication and confirmation of Cu-modified Fe foam electrodes through SEM, EDS, XRD, XPS, and CV analysis. Subsequent characterization of the synthesized derivatives involved CHN analysis, ¹H NMR, and melting point determination.