It is the goal of the project to determine the feasibility of performing electroorganic reactions in supercritical fluids. The synthesis of dimethylformamide, a Kolbe reaction, and the synthesis of p-aminophenol, from nitrobenzene, have been identified as suitable candidate reactions. Initial studies in this project will focus on the phase behavior of the solvent mixtures of the reacting systems. In subsequent electrochemical studies, solution conductivity, surface overpotential, and reaction selectivity will be determined. The goal is to identify combinations of solvents, electrode materials, and operating conditions where the reactions can be efficiently performed. Operation in the supercritical region may lead to enhanced mass transport, increased selectivity, increased reactant solubility, and improved product separation.
