Electrocatalytic hydrogenation of unsaturated organic compounds with molecular complexes: Mechanistic views
Gabriel Durin, Nicolas Kaeffer, Walter Leitner
Abstract
Electrocatalytic hydrogenation of π-bonds in unsaturated organic compounds is a promising strategy for electrifying chemical synthesis using renewable energies. This approach not only offers an alternative to the use of molecular hydrogen but also has the potential to unlock original reaction pathways with higher efficiencies or featuring distinct selectivities or functional group tolerances. In this emerging field, such reactivity engineering can be ideally explored with molecular complexes based on a fundamental understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Recent developments on the hydrogenation of organic π-bonds via molecular electrocatalysis and related key mechanistic features are presented in this viewpoint. Perspectives are drawn to highlight the less explored areas of the catalytic space and point the way to improved catalytic systems.