A 3.6 nm Ti52-Oxo Nanocluster with Precise Atomic Structure

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Catalysis

Background:

• Titanium-oxo clusters (TOCs) are promising nanomaterials for photocatalysis.
• Synthesizing large TOCs with controlled structures remains a challenge.
• Understanding structure-activity relationships is crucial for optimizing photocatalytic performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a record-sized titanium-oxo cluster (TOC).
• To investigate the growth mechanism of large TOCs.
• To evaluate the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity of TOCs with varying sizes.

Main Methods:

• Stepwise interlayer assembly approach using Ti6 substructures.
• Synthesis of Ti6, Ti17, and Ti52 clusters.
• Crystal structure determination.
• Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution measurements.

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized a 3.6 nm Ti52-oxo cluster, the largest reported TOC.
• Elucidated a possible growth mechanism for Ti52 from Ti6 substructures.
• Demonstrated cluster-size-dependent photocatalytic activity, with Ti52 achieving a record H2 production rate of 398 μmol/h/g.

Conclusions:

• The synthesis of large TOCs comparable to TiO2 nanoparticles is achievable.
• The developed stepwise assembly approach enables precise control over TOC size and structure.
• Ti52 exhibits superior photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity, marking a significant advancement in TOC-based photocatalysis.