Electromediated Aldol Reaction in EtOH/H₂O

An environment-friendly electromediated aldol reaction is reported here. With KI as mediator, ketones and aldehydes could be readily converted into β-hydroxyl ketones in EtOH/H2O. A variety of functionalities were compatible with this safe and green method. Mechanism of this transformation was explored with control experiments and cyclic voltammetry.