Metal–ligand interfaces for well-defined gold nanoclusters

Ligand engineering for well-defined gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) is getting more extensive attention. Organizing the Au–ligand interfaces on gold NCs can achieve the structural and functional control. This review focuses on the Au–ligand interfaces including gold–phosphorus (Au–P), gold–sulfur (Au–S), gold–selenium (Au–Se), gold–carbon (Au–C), and gold–nitrogen (Au–N), derived from the bonding between Au atoms and the different ligands (e.g., organic phosphine, thiolate, selenolate, alkynyl, n-heterocyclic carbene and nitrogenous ligands). The formation mechanism of Au–ligand interfaces is well discussed. In addition, the effects of Au–ligand interfaces on the stability, optical property, and catalysis are also presented. We hope the advances in this research area can boost the development of Au NC sciences.