Sub-1 nm Materials Chemistry: Challenges and Prospects

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemistry

Background:

• Subnanometer materials (SNMs) are defined as nanomaterials with feature sizes approaching 1 nm.
• Their atomic-level manipulation represents the frontier of precise material control.
• SNMs exhibit unique properties distinct from traditional nanocrystals due to their small size and high surface area.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in subnanometer materials (SNMs).
• To highlight SNMs' synthesis, polymer-like properties, metastable phases, structural chirality, and catalytic capabilities.
• To explore the potential of SNMs in energy conversion and atomic-level manufacturing.

Main Methods:

• This perspective summarizes existing research and theoretical insights on SNMs.
• It focuses on analyzing the properties and potential applications derived from their unique size regime.
• No new experimental data was generated; it is a review and outlook.

Main Results:

• SNMs exhibit polymer-like gelability, adhesiveness, and processability.
• Their high surface energy allows stabilization of unconventional phases, immiscible alloys, and high-entropy materials.
• SNMs can display intrinsic structural chirality and electron delocalization, enhancing catalytic activity.

Conclusions:

• Subnanometer materials bridge the gap between inorganic materials and polymers.
• Their development facilitates precise manufacturing at the atomic level.
• SNMs hold significant promise for advancing energy conversion technologies.