Mechanistic aspects and electrosynthesis of rose oxide through anodic cyclization of citronellol

The anodic cyclization of citronellol resulting in rose oxide was investigated using 0.1 M HCl as supporting electrolyte and AN:H2O(30:70 vol %) as solvent. Depending on the switching potential used a blocking of the platinum electrode surface was observed. Pulsing of the working electrode potential between appropriate values resulted in reagent conversions with 70% yield. No secondary products were observed. The experimental results are adequately described by an EEC mechanism.