ANODIC-OXIDATION OF 2,4,5-TRIARYLIMIDAZOLES IN APROTIC MEDIUM

The anodic oxidation of 2-(p-dimethylaminophenyl)-4,5-diphenylimidazole and 2,4,5-tris-p-methoxyphenylimidazole in benzonitrile solutions has been studied, using rotating disc electrode, rotating double ring electrode, and coulometry as electrochemical techniques. ESR and UV-vis. spectroscopy were used for product analysis. The triarylimidazoles exhibit two or more oxidation waves. The first one is interpreted as a non-conventional e.c.e. mechanism where the parent molecule is involved in the chemical step. Further anodic waves are due to the oxidation of protonated triarylimidazole, produced in the e.c.e. mechanism. © 1979 Elsevier Sequoia S.A.