Process for the electrosynthesis of aldehydes

摘要

The process for the electrosynthesis of an aldehyde, according to the invention, is carried out by electrolysis, in a cell comprising only a single compartment, of an organic halide and of an N,N-disubstituted formamide such as dimethylformamide, followed by hydrolysis of the reaction mixture. The anode is made of a metal chosen from the group consisting of the reducing metals and their alloys, preferably zinc, aluminum or magnesium. The cathode, which is inert, is preferably covered with an electrolytic deposit of zinc, cadmium, lead or tin. Aldehydes are compounds which are commonly employed in many fields of the chemical industry, especially in perfumery, agricultural chemistry and pharmacy.