Prevention of anode fouling during the electrochemical perfluorination of aromatic carboxylic acid chlorides

The electrochemical perfluorination of benzoyl chloride, p-substituted benzoyl chlorides and cyclo-hexane carboxylic acid chloride in anhydrous hydrogen fluoride (AHF) medium on nickel electrode is reported. Experimental conditions suppressing polymeric film formation on the electrode are optimized. Addition of 1 wt.% dimethyl sulfide based on the volume of AHF in the initial stage of electrochemical fluorination and maintenance of the reactant and intermediate concentrations below a critical level ensured electrochemical fluorination of all the reactants without fouling of the electrode surface. Presence of p-substituents in the benzene ring improved the selectivity of alicyclic perfluoro carboxylic acid. GC/MS and 19F NMR data for the major perfluorinated products are reported.

Optimum experimental conditions including concentration of reactant, additive and partially fluorinated intermediate in the electrolyte system for achieving reproducible electrochemical perfluorination of aromatic carboxylic acid chlorides are reported.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide