Hydrodimerization
# Hydrodimerization

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 $CH_2=CHCN$ + 2 $e^−$ + 2 $H^+$ → $NCCH_2CH_2CH_2CH_2CN$

The reaction applies to a number electrophilic alkenes (Michael acceptors).

