Emerging applications of Zintl clusters in small molecule activation and catalysis

Zintl clusters and phases have long served as model systems for exploring unusual bonding, electronic structures, and solution-state reactivity at the interface of molecular and solid-state chemistry. More recently, advances in cluster synthesis and functionalisation have enabled the emergence of Zintl-based systems capable of mediating a diverse range of catalytic transformations and small molecule activation processes. These developments have established Zintl species as versatile platforms that can function as ligands and supports for transition metal catalysts, non-innocent frameworks that actively participate in substrate activation, and heterogeneous catalytic materials. In this Perspective, we summarise recent progress in both transition metal and transition metal-free Zintl catalysis, highlighting the mechanistic diversity and design principles that underpin their reactivity. We discuss how features such as structural flexibility, cooperative reactivity, redox activity, and precise synthetic tunability have allowed these Zintl materials to be developed as catalyst platforms, and consider future opportunities for development in the field.