Photosynthesis of Au8Cu6 nanocluster for photocatalysis in oxidative functionalization of alkynes

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 Au₈Cu₆ nanocluster, which features a robust structure and active surface. Photoredox catalytic activity of Au₈Cu₆ is developed for the functionalization of alkynes under oxidative conditions. Mechanism studies based on the precise structure reveal the catalytic process of the Au₈Cu₆ nanocluster. Oxidant-dependent selectivity of Au₈Cu₆ 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.