Postclustering Dynamic Covalent Modification for Chirality Control and Chiral Sensing

Cluster-based functional materials are appealing, because clusters are well-defined building units that can be rationally incorporated for the tuning of structures and properties. Postclustering modification (PCM) allows for tailoring properties through the structural modification of a cluster with preorganized funtional groups. By introducing aldehydes into a robust gold–silver cluster via a protection–deprotection process, we manage to synthesize a new cluster bearing six reactive sites, which are available for PCM through dynamic covalent imine bonds formation with chiral monoamines. Chirality is transferred from the amine to the gold–silver cluster. The homochirality of the resulted cluster has been confirmed by X-ray structural determination and CD spetroscopy. Intense CD signals make it practical for chiral recognition and ee value determination of chiral monoamines. The strategy of prefunctionalizing of cluster and the concept of PCM open a broader prospect for cluster design and applications.