What are some nonreactive electrolyte solutions?

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The discussion centers on the need for an appropriate electrolyte for the electrochemical reduction of an alcohol without causing adverse reactions. The user typically employs basic sulfuric acid but recognizes its incompatibility with the alcohol due to potential violent reactions. The goal is to find a suitable electrolyte that is either soluble in alcohol or water, acts as a conductor, and remains inert during the reduction process. Suggestions include using sodium sulfate or other inert salts that are stable and do not undergo oxidation or reduction in the electrochemical cell. The user is focused on maintaining a clean process, as they plan to perform an acid-base extraction afterward to remove the electrolyte.
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I have an alcohol that I need to hydrogenate/reduce and I would like to do it electrochemically. The catholyte solutions I am used to using are basic sulfuric acid, but that would not work in this case as it would cause a violent reaction with the alcohol. The alcohol could be reduced with an acid but I would prefer to do it electrochemically as it is much cleaner. I need some sort of electrolyte, either soluble in alcohol or water, that can act as a conductor in this cell, but not react with the alcohol that I am reducing. Following the reduction is the usual workout with an acid-base extraction so there's no worry about difficulty in removing the elctrolyte.

Any ideas?
 
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Sodium sulfate? Basically any inert salt that won't easily get oxidized nor reduced.
 
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