Indirect Electrochemical Oxidation of p-Methoxy-Toluene to p-Methoxy-Benzaldehyde Using Ceric Methanesulphonate: A Scale-up Study

Electrochemically produced and regenerated cerium(IV) ions, by Ce 3+ /Ce 4+, are well-known redox mediators and are used particularly as synthesis agents for the indirect oxidation of a side chain methyl group to the aldehyde group in substituted toluene. Detailed studies on indirect electrochemical oxidation of p -methoxy-toluene to p -methoxy-benzaldehyde using ceric methanesulphonate were carried out. Under optimized conditions, the yield achieved was 65−78% for the oxidation with continuous recycling and electrochemical regeneration of ceric was achieved with a current efficiency of 70−85%. Purity of the product was also remaining consistent during recycling.