Organic Synthesis Catalyzed by Metal Nanoclusters

Metal nanoclusters (MNCs) usually refer to a type of metal nanoparticles with an ultra-small size, i.e., usually <2 nm. In general, metal nanoclusters are generated in situ in the presence of bulky ligands (stabilizers), which prevent agglomeration of the nanoclusters. Atomically precise metal nanoclusters can be considered quasi-homogeneous catalysts because their well-defined molecular-like structures are similar to those of homogeneous catalysts, the metal centers of which are often coordinated with organic ligands (stabilizers). Metal nanoparticles with organic stabilizers exhibit good catalytic efficiency and selectivity in various reactions on account of their well-defined size, composition, surface, and structure. This chapter mainly discusses the preparation, characterization, and application of metal nanoclusters in organic transformation, including hydrogenation, dehydrogenation, oxidation, allylic substitution, polymerization, coupling reactions, and so on.