Sample interview questions: Can you explain the concept of flow electrochemistry and its applications in organic synthesis?
Sample answer:
Concept of Flow Electrochemistry
Flow electrochemistry involves performing electrochemical reactions in a continuous flow reactor, where reactants are introduced at one end and products are collected at the other. The reactions take place in a microfluidic channel or a capillary, enabling precise control of reaction conditions and residence time. Unlike traditional batch electrochemistry, flow electrochemistry offers several advantages.
Advantages:
- Enhanced Selectivity and Efficiency: The continuous flow format reduces side reactions and improves product selectivity by minimizing reactant exposure to reaction intermediates.
- Scalability and Throughput: Multi-stage reactions can be seamlessly integrated into a single flow process, enabling the production of complex molecules at scale with high throughput.
- Reduced Solvent Consumption and Waste Generation: Flow electrochemistry employs minimal solvent volumes, reducing solvent consumption and waste generation.
- Enhanced Control of Reaction Conditions: Precise control of residence time, temperature, and electrochemical potential enables fine-tuning of reaction conditions for optimal outcomes.
Applications in Organic Synthesis:
Flow electrochemistry has revolutionized organic synthesis by expandin… Read full answer