Electrosynthesis of 1,2 diketones by reduction of aromatic esters at freshly metal coated electrodes: A novel coupling reaction

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/S0040-4020(01)80368-9

The one-step electrosynthesis of 1,2 aryldiketones has been achieved by constant current electrolysis of aromatic esters in an undivided cell fitted with a cadmium coated cathode and a sacrificial magnesium anode. Evidence is given for a role of Mg²⁺ ions in the pathway of the reaction.