Gold(III) – metal organic framework bridges the gap between homogeneous and heterogeneous gold catalysts

A MOF containing an Au(III) Schiff base complex lining the pore walls has been prepared by a post-synthesis method. The Au(III)-containing MOF is highly active and selective for domino coupling and cyclization reactions in liquid phase, the Au(III) species remain after the reaction, and the catalyst is fully recyclable. This gives higher activity than homogeneous and gold-supported catalysts reported up to now.The well-defined Au(III) sites are active for dissociating H2 and proved to be active for the gas-phase selective hydrogenation of 1,3-butadiene into the butenes.

Open cationic AuIII species are created based on a post-synthesis strategy on IRMOF-3, which shows much higher catalytic performance in coupling and hydrogenation reactions in comparison with oxide-supported gold and homogeneous gold salt/complexes (Zn: green; O: red; C: light blue; N: deep blue; Au: yellow; Cl: white. H atoms are omitted).Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (104 K)Download as PowerPoint slide