Electrocatalysis: Synthesis to Devices

Research Topics

Electrochemical Organic Oxidation Reaction

Electrochemical organic oxidation in paired water electrolysis is a sustainable approach for converting waste materials, such as plastics and biomass-derived compounds, into value-added precursor products at the anode while simultaneously enhancing hydrogen production efficiency at the cathode. By utilizing electrical energy, this method enables the selective oxidation of organic molecules, which have lower electrochemical potentials than water oxidation, thereby generating valuable chemicals. In the case of plastic waste, hydrolysis followed by electrochemical oxidation yields useful intermediates like succinate and formate. Similarly, biomass-derived molecules such as hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) can be electrochemically oxidized into high-value compounds like 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), a key precursor for bioplastics. This approach not only offers a greener and more energy-efficient pathway for upcycling waste into industrially relevant chemicals but also improves the overall efficiency of hydrogen generation.