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Precisely modulating the surface sites on atomically monodispersed gold-based nanoclusters for controlling their
Yongnan Sun1, Xinglian Cheng1, Yuying Zhang1
1School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China. zhuyan@nju.edu.cn.
Nanoscale
|September 2, 2020
Summary
Atomically precise gold nanoclusters show tunable catalytic properties through surface structure modification. Tailoring surface motifs, doping, and ligands unlocks new catalytic applications for these advanced nanomaterials.
Area of Science:
- Catalysis Science
- Nanomaterials Chemistry
- Surface Science
Background:
- Atomically precise gold nanoclusters (NCs) are crucial in catalysis.
- Their catalytic properties are intrinsically linked to their atomic-level structures.
- Understanding this structure-property relationship is key to advancing catalysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in catalysis driven by precise modulation of gold nanocluster surface structures.
- To highlight the impact of surface motif alteration, heteroatom doping, and ligand engineering.
- To provide insights into the role of surface structures in catalytic activation and mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Crystal structure determination of gold nanoclusters.
- In situ and ex situ spectroscopic analysis.
- Surface structure engineering (motif alteration, doping, ligand modification).
Main Results:
- Demonstrated control over catalytic properties by precisely modifying nanocluster surfaces.
- Identified specific surface structures that dictate catalytic activity and mechanism.
- Showcased the potential for wide-ranging catalytic applications through tailored nanocluster surfaces.
Conclusions:
- Surface structure engineering is a powerful strategy for controlling gold nanocluster catalysis.
- Detailed structural understanding enables the design of highly efficient and selective catalysts.
- Tailored atomically precise nanoclusters offer significant promise for diverse catalytic applications.
