Recent Advances in Electrochemical Chalcogen (S/Se)‐Functionalization of Organic Molecules

Abstract

Abstract Achieving advances in the development of clean and efficient synthetic routes has become an important aim in research. In recent years, the search for new sustainable methodologies, notably environmentally benign synthetic procedures, has gained the attention of the scientific community. Electrosynthesis is a tool that has been extensively studied due to its potential application in chemical transformations and it adheres to the principles of green chemistry. Organochalogen compounds form an important class of molecules, since many of them have properties that can be applied in medicine and materials science. Thus, herein we provide a comprehensive and updated overview covering recent advances in the electrochemical C(sp 2 )−H bond chalcogenation of activated arenes and heterocycles as well as electrochemical chalcogenation through oxidative cross‐coupling reactions and chalcogen‐functionalization of alkenes/alkynes. The scope, limitations, and mechanisms are described and discussed, detailing the fundamental aspects and benefits of electrochemistry for the chalcogenation of organic compounds. The content of this Minireview demonstrates that it is possible to provide new synthetic routes and to improve the existing methodologies, to obtain processes more in line with current environmental protection aims. The reader will also find a discussion on the fundamental aspects and benefits of applying electrosynthesis to the assembly and operation of an electrolytic cell.