Bimetallic gold(i) complexes of photoswitchable phosphines: synthesis and uses in cooperative catalysisElectronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Experimental procedures, X-ray data, 1H and 13C NMR data for new compounds, 1H NMR monitoring of catalytic reactions. CCDC 1484587-1484590. For ESI and crystallographic data in CIF or other electronic format see DOI: 10.1039/c7cy01614j

The first photoswitchable bimetallic gold catalysts based on an azobenzene backbone have been synthesized and their catalytic properties have been investigated. In the intramolecular hydroamination reaction, the reaction rate proved to be dependent on the E - or Z -configuration of the catalyst used, with the Z -isomer being significantly more active. These results suggest that a possible cooperative effect between the two metals operates in this reaction. The first photoswitchable bimetallic gold catalysts based on an azobenzene backbone have been synthesized and their catalytic properties have been investigated.