Mechanistic insights in electro-synthesis of biomass-derived chemicals: The Kolbe reaction

Green electrons can be used in the synthesis of biomass-derived chemicals. In this issue of Chem Catalysis , Chan and co-workers provide new insights into the Kolbe reaction, which electrocatalytically produces alkanes from carboxylic acids, such as acetic acid. They resolve a debate regarding the origin of an inflection zone in the current-potential curve. Green electrons can be used to synthesize biomass-derived chemicals. In this Chem Catalysis issue, Chan and co-workers provide new insights in the Kolbe reaction, which electrocatalytically produces alkanes from carboxylic acids, such as acetic acid. They resolve a debate regarding the origin of an inflection zone in the current-potential curve.