Silver nanoparticles prepared by the direct reduction of AgNO3 in aqueous solution were compacted into coins and used as the cathode for the electrocatalytic carboxylation of 1-phenethyl bromide with CO2. The influences of the working electrode, charge, current density and temperature were investigated. Under optimized conditions, 98% yield of 2-phenylpropionic acid was obtained. The reaction was performed under very mild conditions and no added catalyst was required in the electrolyte. Yields that varied from moderate to excellent were also achieved with other benzyl bromides. This electrode has good stability and reusability, and the yield and selectivity of 2-phenylpropionic acid could be maintained during reuse for 10 times.
