Hydrodimerization is an organic reaction that couples two alkenes to give a symmetrical hydrocarbon. The reaction is often implemented electrochemically; in that case the reaction is called electrodimerization. The reaction can also be induced with samarium diiodide, a one-electron reductant. Hydrodimerization is the basis of the Monsanto adiponitrile synthesis:
2 CH2=CHCN + 2 e− + 2 H+ → NCCH2CH2CH2CH2CN
The reaction applies to a number electrophilic alkenes (Michael acceptors).
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