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Activation of atom-precise clusters for catalysis
V Sudheeshkumar1, Kazeem O Sulaiman1, Robert W J Scott1
1Department of Chemistry, University of Saskatchewan 110 Science Place Saskatoon Saskatchewan S7N 5C9 Canada robert.scott@usask.ca.
Nanoscale Advances
|September 22, 2022
Summary
Atom-precise metal clusters are promising for catalysis but sinter easily. This review covers activation methods and strategies to prevent sintering, preserving catalyst structure and function.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Catalysis
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Atom-precise, ligand-protected metal clusters offer controlled nanoparticle synthesis for heterogeneous catalysis.
- A significant challenge is the sintering of these clusters upon ligand removal, compromising structural integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review methods for activating atom-precise thiolate-stabilized metal clusters for heterogeneous catalysis.
- To explore strategies for mitigating sintering and preserving cluster morphology.
- To examine the influence of detached ligands on catalyst properties.
Main Methods:
- Review of thermal, chemical, and photochemical activation strategies for metal clusters.
- Discussion of material chemistry approaches like overcoating and encapsulation to prevent sintering.
- Analysis of characterization techniques (X-ray absorption spectroscopy, electron microscopy) for monitoring sintering.
Main Results:
- Various activation methods exist, with thermal activation being common.
- Material chemistry strategies, including sol-gel and atomic layer deposition, effectively mitigate sintering.
- Ligand behavior post-activation significantly impacts catalyst performance.
Conclusions:
- Effective activation and sintering mitigation are crucial for utilizing atom-precise metal clusters in catalysis.
- Careful control over ligand detachment and support interactions is necessary.
- Advanced characterization is vital for understanding and optimizing these catalytic systems.
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