On the electrochemistry of pyrylium ions at the mercury electrode. I. Aliphatically substituted ions in acetonitrile

Abstract

The electrochemical behaviour of 2,4,6-trimethyl- and 2,4,6-tri-t-butyl-pyrylium tetrafluoroborates in acetonitrile is reported. Both compounds undergo a reversible, one-electron reduction followed by dimerization of the pyranyl radical. In the case of the trimethyl radical the dimerization is irreversible whereas the tri-t-butyl radical is in equilibrium with its dimer. Rate constants for the chemical reactions have been determined.