One-step electrochemical conversion of propane to acetone of 96% purity

Xingtao Hu, Mingyuan Li, Wenyong Jiang, Zhaoyu Yao, Gongwei Wang (), Li Xiao () and Lin Zhuang ()
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Xingtao Hu: Wuhan University
Mingyuan Li: Wuhan University
Wenyong Jiang: Wuhan University
Zhaoyu Yao: Wuhan University
Gongwei Wang: Wuhan University
Li Xiao: Wuhan University
Lin Zhuang: Wuhan University

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract Acetone is a crucial chemical and solvent with extensive industrial applications, traditionally synthesized from propane through multi-step processes that demand high temperatures and pressures. Here, we report a selective one-step conversion of propane to acetone using a heterogeneous electro-Fenton process (h-EFP) under mild conditions. In this process, concentrated ·OH radicals are generated in an iron/carbon hybrid cathode via a two-electron oxygen reduction reaction followed by H2O2 conversion. Co-feeding propane and oxygen into such a cathode of an electrolyzer leads to the direct conversion of propane to acetone via isopropanol, with the acetone selectivity ranging from 50% to 80% depending on the current densities. Propane oxidation is unexpectedly accelerated at lower temperatures due to the enhanced ·OH generation. Optimal conditions are identified at 10 °C and 6.2 bar, near the propane liquefaction threshold. Furthermore, the automated separation of gaseous and liquid products at the cathode outlet enables straightforward purification of acetone to 96%. This work provides an alternative and sustainable approach to converting propane, offering a direct and efficient route for activating inert C–H bonds under mild conditions.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-63342-0

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