Photosynthesis of Au<sub>8</sub>Cu<sub>6</sub> nanocluster for photocatalysis in oxidative functionalization of alkynes.

Zhao, Yan; Zhu, Ze-Min; Fan, Weigang; Zhu, Wanli; Yang, Jing-Jing; Tao, Yang; Fei, Wenwen; Bi, Hong et al. · Nat Commun · 2024

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Ligand-protected metal nanoclusters provide an ideal platform for investigating photoredox catalysis. The central challenge is balancing their stability and catalytic activity. Here we show a photochemical reduction-oxidation cascade method for synthesizing an Au<sub>8</sub>Cu<sub>6</sub> nanocluster, which features a robust structure and active surface. Photoredox catalytic activity of Au<sub>8</sub>Cu<sub>6</sub> is developed for the functionalization of alkynes under oxidative conditions. Mechanism studies based on the precise structure reveal the catalytic process of the Au<sub>8</sub>Cu<sub>6</sub> nanocluster. Oxidant-dependent selectivity of Au<sub>8</sub>Cu<sub>6</sub> catalysis is developed for chemodivergent synthesis of mono- and di-functionalized products in high efficiency. The results will stimulate more research on metal nanocluster synthesis and catalysis.