Applying a potential across two electrodes drives oxidation or reduction directly, letting electricity itself act as the reagent.
Anode: S - e(-) -> S(+•)
S(+•) + Nu -> P
rate ~ j * A_electrode
- Substrate conc. — dissolved organic substrate molecules circulating between the electrodes.
- Electrode sites — active electrode surface patches (anode oxidation sites) available for electron transfer.
- Current density — applied current per unit electrode area — the electrochemical driving force.
- Electron transfer rate — how quickly an adsorbed intermediate completes its follow-up chemistry and desorbs as product.
Electroorganic synthesis replaces stoichiometric chemical oxidants with electrons from a power supply, cutting hazardous-waste generation in fine-chemical manufacturing.