Organic electrochemical conversions: from switches to biomass upgrading

This thesis focuses on organic electrochemical conversions with an emphasis on switches and biomass upgrading. We developed new multistable switching systems capable of reaching various stable states triggered by external stimuli. Moreover, we explored how these systems could be exploited to construct smart electronic devices taking advantage of the unique properties of a diradical state. The second part of this thesis is focused on the electrochemical upgrading of biomass. First a methodology was described to convert furfural electrochemically to methyl 2-furoate. In another reaction protocol, which also includes an electrochemical oxidation step, α,β-unsaturated aldehydes were synthesized.