Electrochemical hydrogenation of organic compounds: A sustainable approach

Conventional methods for hydrogenation of organic compounds generally use corrosive catalysts and reagents, along with extreme conditions like high temperatures and pressures. Quenching of corrosive materials does not deter its negative impact on the environment, nor is one safe when it comes to working with high temperature and pressure. Electrochemical hydrogenation has proven to be safe and green since most of the efficient reactions are conducted at ambient pressure and temperature, without or minimizing the use of toxic catalysts and corrosive reagents as compared to conventional methods. This review therefore presents the advances in electrochemical hydrogenation reactions of organic compounds, starting from simple aliphatic compounds to complex polyaromatics and heterocyclic aromatic compounds.