Electrochemical synthesis: A green & powerful approach to modern organic synthesis and future directions

Electrochemical synthesis is a safe, mild and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical oxidants and reductants. It uses electricity to catalyze redox reactions. However, understanding the tools and techniques involved is crucial for maximizing its benefits in academic and industrial applications. Still, for a novice, electrosynthesis can be a somewhat intimidating. Therefore, we provide guidance to synthetic chemists by highlighting key concepts and offering practical tips. In this review article, we focus on the utilization of electro-auxiliaries, indirect electrosynthesis, alternating electrode electrolysis (AEE), microreactors for electrochemical processes, and paired electrochemical reactions. These strategies are illustrated with selected examples. The use of electrodes and electroanalytical methods such as cyclic voltammetry are discussed. It highlights the advantages of merging electrochemistry and photochemistry, and the challenges of specific organic solvents and electrolytes. The incorporation of electrochemistry into a continuous chemical flow system further advances green activation technologies in terms of efficiency, applicability, sustainability, and selectivity to deliver more efficient and cleaner synthetic processes. Furthermore, this manuscript also emphasizes improvements in current approaches and future directions for large-scale electrosynthesis.