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RESEARCH PRODUCT

The electrochemistry of carbon monoxide reductive cyclotetramerization to squarate anion

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Abstract The electrochemical reduction, of carbon monoxide to C4O2−4 squarate anion is investigated. Particular attention is devoted to the influence that solvents, electrolytes, electrodes and carbon monoxide pressure have on the yields. The main feature appears to be that strictly controlled conditions are not necessary for cyclotetramerization. In dmf — Bu4NBr the following yields vs reacted CO and circulated charge were obtained with different cathodes: Pt(49%, 34%); Au(48%, 29%); Al(47%, 38%); stainless steel (36%, 33%); graphite (39%, 31%). A distinct influence of the supporting electrolyte (inorganic and tetraalkylammonium halides) was however observed.