Synthesis of α-germyl and α-silylcarboxylic acids and selected electrochemical oxidations

New α-germylcarboxylic acids, α-silyl-α-halocarboxylic and α-silyl-α-alkylcarboxylic acids including some known α-silyl(cycloalkyl)carboxylic acids have been prepared by different synthetic methods. The anodic oxidation in basic methanol of selected examples of these acids has been investigated under various experimental conditions to afford mainly oxidative degermylation/desilylation and decarboxylation products. Based on the emerged products, various mechanisms are suggested and discussed.

Graphical abstractVarious types of α-germyl and α-silylcarboxylic acids were synthesized. Anodic oxidation of selected acids gave decarboxylation and degermylation/desilylation products.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Various types of α-germyl and α-silylcarboxylic acids have been synthesized. ► Anodic oxidation of selected acids was conducted in methanol (C anodes, base, constant current, undivided cell). ► Emerging products stem from both anodic decarboxylation and degermylation (or desilylation).