A N,N-dimethylformamide protected rhodium nanocluster with engrossing optical properties and its application

Here, we present the synthesis and characterization of a new N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) protected rhodium nanocluster (Rh NC) and its interesting optical properties. These small clusters are emissive and exhibit inhomogeneous broadening. The origin of the inhomogeneous broadening and emission behavior were investigated through detailed photo-physical studies. In this study, we demonstrated that the charge transfer from ligand to metal (DMF to Rh) was the source of the emission. Interactions between the polar DMF protected Rh NC and the solvent in the ground state generate inhomogeneous broadening. We probed the emission behavior for the detection of toxic metal ions. Photo-physical studies established the static mechanism of this sensing behavior.