Anodic oxidation of aroyl and phenacyl azides

The electrochemical oxidation of two types of organic azides, XC6H4COCH2N3 and XC6H4CON3 (X = H, p-CH3, p-OCH3, p-Br) derivatives has been investigated, both by cyclic voltammetry and preparative electrolysis. The effects of substitution, electrolysis technique, solvent and anodes on the outcome of the electrochemical oxidation are discussed. In general, various products were obtained mostly due to CO–CH2N3 and CO–N3 bonds cleavage.