Au clusters-based visible light photocatalysis

Achieving substantial light harvesting typically in visible light region is crucial to further improve the performance and their practical applications of photocatalysts in solar energy utilization. Recently, enormous attention has been paid to the gold (Au) clusters in the field of photocatalysis because they are a unique type of novel visible photosensitizer and catalytic center. So far, a wide variety of Au clusters-based photocatalysts have been designed to drive diverse photoredox reactions under light irradiation with suitable wavelengths. The special focus of this minireview is on overviewing various applications of Au clusters-based composites in heterogeneous photocatalysis with selected recent representative examples. Subsequently, the latest advances about the strategies for improving the photostability of Au clusters are elaborated. At last, we end with casting a personal prospect on the possible opportunities and challenges for future development of Au clusters-based photocatalysis. [GRAPHICS] .