ok trying the random word thing with _Organic Syntheses_ again. the word of the day is "thirsty"
and it matches one article, wow
http://www.orgsyn.org/demo.aspx?prep=CV6P0153
cyclization of 1,3-dihaloalkanes to cyclopropanes by an electrolytic method! (also 1,4-dihaloalkanes yield cyclobutanes but it's not as good)
preparative electrochemistry is always one of those things I kinda look at with a slightly jaundiced eye. you need specialized equipment. and, in this case, a mercury-pool cathode. bleh
so far as I know you can't really substitute anything for mercury, when you're using it as a liquid electrode. mercury's electrochemical properties are pretty unique to it
what's the alternative anyway? for closing these small rings, Wurtz coupling with sodium metal, usually a crap reaction, is actually good. but the electrolytic procedure probably has more selectivity and control.
I've vaguely heard of, like, activated non-alkali metals being used. or samarium diiodide
oh, and the thirst?
"and the porous Vycor plugs are cut from lengths of 1/8-in.-diameter porous Vycor rod (_thirsty_ glass or Corning Vycor No. 7930), available from the Electronic Parts Department, Corning Glass Works, Houghton Park, Corning, New York, 14830."
so there ya go. glass can be thirsty.
