Highly efficient and selective photocatalytic hydroamination of alkynes by supported gold nanoparticles using visible light at ambient temperature.

The direct hydroamination of alkynes driven by visible light can be achieved in high yield and selectivity at ambient temperature using supported gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as photocatalysts. Aniline molecules interact with visible light activated AuNPs meanwhile alkynes could be activated at active sites on the support. The findings reveal a new green approach for synthesis of fine organic compounds and provide insight into catalyst design for the activation of C≡C triple bonds and amines.