Oligomers Electrosynthesis: A Selective and Greener Synthetic Tool

Abstract

Oligomeric compounds can be considered from two points of view: polymer chemistry often sees them as undesired by-products of polymerization processes or, more fruitfully, synthesizes them as structural models for polymers, while organic chemistry synthesizes oligomers, with a typical bottom-up approach, starting from the respective monomers. Conjugated oligomers play a fundamental role in the field of organic semiconductors and therefore in the field of industrial and high-tech applications. Electrochemistry can make a significant contribution to the field of oligomers by rendering the syntheses more expeditious in comparison with the classical organic ones. The electrochemical approach may offer several advantages over the traditional organic synthesis. For example, cleaner and more sustainable syntheses and simpler and shorter synthetic pathways. This review outlines the application of electrochemistry techniques in the synthesis of oligomers.