Abstract
The use of chiral Ni(II)-salen derivatives was examined in mediated electrohydrocyclization reactions. Cyclic voltammetry established the existence of a catalytic current. Bulk electrolysis revealed a slight change in the diastereoselectivity of the cyclizations. Computational studies were conducted that showed that Ni(II) and Zn(II) were the best metals for electron transfer, while the analogous Co(II) and Cu(II) compounds would likely not result in effective electron transfer.