Loading Lewis Acid/Base Pair on Metal Nanocluster for Catalytic Ugi Reaction.

Constructing structurally robust and catalytically active metal nanoclusters for catalyzing multi-component reactions is an interesting while challenging task. Inspired by Lewis acid and Lewis base catalysis, we realized the combination of both Lewis acid and Lewis base sites on the surface of a stable gold nanocluster AuCd. The catalytic potential of AuCd in four-component Ugi reaction was explored, demonstrating high activity and exceptional recyclability. In-depth mechanism studies indicate that the catalytic synergy of the Lewis acid/base pair is crucial for the high efficiency of AuCd-catalyzed Ugi reaction. Bearing the stable structure, multiple activation sites and hierarchical chirality, AuCd is expected to display further interesting catalytic performance such as asymmetric catalysis.