Regio- and stereoselective hydrosilylation of alkynes catalyzed by SiO2 supported Pd–Cu bimetallic nanoparticles.

An efficient, recyclable Pd–Cu bimetallic nanoparticle catalyst has been prepared, which exhibits superior activity and selectivity toward the hydrosilylation of internal and terminal alkynes under mild reaction conditions with a low catalyst loading. Distinct enhancement in catalytic performance is observed when compared with traditional monometallic catalysts, and the composition of BMNPs is found to be crucial in both selectivity and yield. This kind of elevation in catalytic performance can be ascribed to the enrichment of active sites (Pd) on the catalyst surface and a phenomenon collectively referred to as “synergistic effects”. The successful application of BMNPs as catalysts in the alkyne hydrosilylation opens up new possibilities for the excavation of the value of bimetallic nanoparticles in catalysts’ development for sustainable chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]