The direct anodic oxidation of non-phenolic lignin model compounds was investigated to understand their basic behaviors. The results of cyclic voltammetry (CV) studies of monomeric model, such as 1-(4-ethoxy-3-methoxyphenyl)ethanol, are interpreted as the oxidation for C a -carbonylation did not proceed in the reaction without a catalyst, but a base promotes this reaction. Indeed, the bulk electrolyses of the monomeric lignin model compounds with 2,6-lutidine afforded the corresponding C a -carbonyl compounds in high yields (60-80%). It is suggested that deprotonation at C a -H in the ECEC mechanism (Eselectron transfer and Cschemical step) is important for C a -carbonylation. In the uncatalyzed bulk electrolysis of a b-O-4 model dimeric compound, 4-ethoxy-3-methoxyphenylglycerol-b-guaiacyl ether, the corresponding C a -carbonyl compound was not detected but as a result of C a -C b cleavage 4-O-ethylvanillin was found in 40% yield. In the electrolysis reaction in the presence of 2,6-lutidine (as a sterically hindered light base), the reaction stopped for a short time unexpectedly. These results indicate the different electrochemical behavior of simple monomeric model compounds and dimeric b-O-4 models. The conclusion is that direct electrooxidation is unsuitable for C a -carbonylation of lignin.