Exploring an Electrochemical Route for Water-Enhanced Oxygenation Reactions Utilizing Nickel Molecular Structures: A Case Study

Recently, Ni molecular catalysis has been extensively applied in oxygenation reactions. This work is underpinned by the characterization techniques and the discovered instability of the Ni-bipyridine/phenanthroline system, which results in Ni (hydr)­oxide production under oxidative conditions. The practical applications of this mechanism by employing a prepared Ni (hydr)­oxide-based electrode specifically in the oxygenation of sulfides, achieving noteworthy yields in contrast to noncatalyst control experiments, are explored. Thus, a Ni (hydr)­oxide-based material is proposed as a candidate for the true catalyst for sulfide oxidation in the presence of the Ni-bipyridine/phenanthroline system. The findings of this study are expected to stimulate discussion and encourage new viewpoints within the chemical community regarding the potential applications and mechanisms of molecular catalysts in oxidation reactions.