A supramolecular ensemble of a PBI derivative and Cu2O NPs: potential photocatalysts for the Suzuki and Suzuki type coupling reactions

Abstract

The aggregates of the PBI derivative 1 in combination with Benedict's reagent have been used for the first time as reactors for facile preparation of Cu₂O NPs at room temperature. During this process the aldehyde groups of the aggregates of derivative 1 are oxidized to carboxylate groups which act as stabilizers for Cu₂O NPs to generate the supramolecular ensemble 2:Cu₂O. Interestingly, the in situ generated supramolecular ensemble (2:Cu₂O) of Cu₂O NPs and aggregates of oxidized species 2 exhibited excellent photocatalytic efficiency in the Suzuki–Miyaura and Suzuki type cross-coupling reactions under mild and eco-friendly conditions.