Understanding the Catalytic Role of Ligands in Supported Aunrm Nanoclusters for Gas Phase Reactions

This study clearly suggests that organic ligands can act as a double-edged sword for the Au_nR_m nanoclusters in gas phase reactions when the surface Au atoms are fully coordinated. Coordination unsaturated Au atoms via de-ligation or structure design are needed for gas phase catalysis by the Au nanoclusters.