Unveiling Plasmon-Induced Suzuki–Miyaura Reactions on Silver Nanoparticles via Raman Spectroscopy

The Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction is an efficient organic method for synthesizing biphenyl products. However, its conventional reliance on toxic soluble organometallic palladium catalysts or expensive palladium nanoparticles, along with the need for elevated temperatures and prolonged reaction times, presents a significant challenge. Herein, we demonstrate a palladium-free approach using plasmonic silver nanoparticles that enables the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction to proceed at room temperature under visible light. Utilizing the surface-enhanced Raman scattering characteristics of silver, we conducted dynamic self-monitoring of the reaction. Our findings reveal that this plasmon-induced Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction fundamentally operates as a heterogeneous reaction involving coupling between radicals, distinct from conventional palladium-based reactions. Moreover, the cleavage of C–Cl and C–B bonds, fundamental prerequisite to the coupling, is driven by plasmonic hot electrons and plasmon-induced reactive oxygen species, respectively. These findings not only provide insights into the design and regulation of plasmonic catalysts but also enhance theoretical understanding of the Suzuki–Miyaura reaction in a broader context.