Liquid Metal Solvent Synthesis of Single-Crystal Rhenium Nanoparticles with Ultrahigh Strength and Plasticity

The unique properties of refractory metals, such as high melting point, high strength, and great corrosion resistance, qualify them as an intriguing option for harsh applications. However, internal defects and surface flaws inherent in currently prepared refractory metals compromise their mechanical properties, making them inadequate for practical applications. Here, a liquid-metal-mediated strategy enabling the preparation of single-crystal refractory metal nanoparticles with a highly symmetrical shape is reported. Liquid metals provide a favorable solution environment that facilitates rapid diffusion and aggregation of refractory metal atoms, allowing them to self-rearrange into stable Wulff configurations. The exceptional mechanical properties of the synthesized single-crystal refractory metal nanoparticles are highlighted by rhenium (Re) samples, which exhibit ultrahigh strength (up to 67.8 GPa) exceeding that of any known metal and significant plastic deformability capable of retaining shape without cracking up to an 80% strain. This remarkable combination of mechanical properties arises from the synergistic effects of the highly symmetrical shape and high-quality single-crystal structure. This strategy not only lays the groundwork for the controlled synthesis of high-quality refractory metals but also advances the fundamental understanding of their structure-property relationships for the rational design of high-performance materials.