Modulating Copper\nLadder Spacing in Copper Phenylacetylide\nfor Enhanced Photocatalysis via Substituent Control

Copper phenylacetylide (PACu) is a promising photocatalyst\ndue\nto its unique copper ladder (CL) electron transport channel, which\nfacilitates efficient charge transfer. However, the structure–activity\nrelationship between the CL spacing and its catalytic performance\nhas yet to be revealed. In this study, we skillfully selected multiple\nsubstituents to regulate the CL spacing of the PACu photocatalyst.\nOur findings indicate that reducing the CL spacing significantly enhances\ncarrier separation and transport efficiency, leading to improved oxygen\nadsorption and activation. Specifically, PACu-F demonstrated superior\nphotocatalytic activity, achieving a 99% conversion rate in benzylamine\noxidation and maintaining an excellent stability over multiple cycles.\nThis study confirms the feasibility of tuning the CL spacing in PACu\nusing donor/acceptor substituents to achieve a high-efficiency photocatalytic\nperformance, offering crucial insights into the rational design of\nadvanced photocatalysts.