A robust Ag/Ti nanocluster as an efficient heterogeneous Lewis Acid-Base catalyst for C-C bond formation

In heterogeneous catalysis, the quest for atom-precise heterometallic nanoclusters bearing bifunctional Lewis acid-base sites to achieve both heterometallic synergism and metal-ligand cooperation is a significant but challenging task. In this regard, a novel Ag/Ti heterometallic cluster featuring an hourglassshaped Ag7 cluster surrounded by a quasi-plane {Ti4} metalloligand has been developed through facial one-pot solvothermal strategy. Although the Ag7 cluster is further stabilized by phenylacetylide, it is not entirely obstructed by outer ligands, allowing multiple silver active sites to be exposed on the surface. Moreover, the cluster manifests excellent Lewis acid-base activity and recyclability towards C-C bond formation reactions, involving the Knoevenagel condensation and the cyanosilylation.& COPY; 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.