Solution synthesis of antiferromagnetic manganese nanoparticles

Nanoparticles have been frequently found to be more reactive than complexes made of the same metals and ligands. However, despite the considerable development of low-valent manganese complexes due to their relevance in catalysis, the chemistry of manganese metal nanoparticles remains severely underdeveloped. Using an organometallic approach, we describe the synthesis of Mn(0) nanoparticles. Thorough magnetic characterization evidences the antiferromagnetic behavior of non-oxidized nanoparticles. They feature highly electrophilic properties, which are highlighted by their catalytic properties in alkene hydrogenation and their irreversible reactions with oxygen-containing molecules. This result paves the way for the preparation of a new generation of manganese-based nanoparticles, which has so far been impossible due to the absence of a synthesis route.