Glaser–Hay Coupling on Surfaces

Abstract In contrast to classical solution chemistry, on-surface synthesis is a very young and active research topic. Among the limited reactions developed in this area, Glaser–Hay coupling of terminal alkynes is an important reaction for bottom-up fabricated, covalently bound nanostructures at surfaces. Within this book chapter, we will focus on several significant advances in the following aspects: (1) the introduction of Glaser–Hay coupling to on-surface synthesis, (2) the complexity of acetylenic chemistry on surfaces, (3) selectivity of alkyne chemistry toward Glaser coupling, (4) experimental variation in on-surface Glaser–Hay coupling, (5) application of the Glaser–Hay coupling.