Highly efficient PdCu sub(3) nanocatalysts for Suzuki-Miyaura reaction

Suzuki-Miyaura reactions, involving the activation of carbon-halogen bonds, especially C-Cl bonds, have drawn widespread attention because of their huge industrial potential. However, these reactions are dependent on the development of highly active and stable catalysts. Herein, we developed a convenient one-pot wet route to synthesize Pd sub(x)Cu sub(y) bimetallic nanocrystals for the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction. By introducing Cu, an earth-abundant element, the catalytic activity was greatly enhanced while the amount of Pd required was reduced. Pd sub(x)Cu sub(y) nanocrystals of different compositions, including Pd sub(3)Cu, Pd sub(2)Cu, PdCu, PdCu sub(2), and PdCu sub(3), were successfully synthesized by tuning the Pd:Cu ratio. Their catalytic performance in Suzuki-Miyaura reactions between phenylboronic acid and halobenzenes (iodo-, bromo-, or chlorobenzene) showed that PdCu sub(3) nanocatalyst demonstrated the best efficacy. [Figure not available: see fulltext.]