VOLTAMMETRIC STUDIES ON SOME ARYLHYDRAZONES OF ALPHA-CYANO KETONES AND ALPHA-CYANO ESTERS

The redox characteristics of the title compounds are extensively studied using DC-, cyclic voltammetry, coulometry, and controlled potential electrolysis in benzonitrile at platinum electrodes. These compounds are oxidized in one-electron transfer process followed by deprotonation which leads to dimerization. The reduction process differs according to the nature of the compound and the electron-withdrawing power of the substitutent in the alpha-position. They can be reduced in a single two electron or two one electron waves leading in both cases to saturation of the hydrazonic moiety.