An Unprecedented Two-Dimensional Pattern in Gold Nanoclusters Bred by Interlocking Au₄ Blocks.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Catalysis

Background:

• Two-dimensional (2D) atomically precise metal nanoclusters are largely unexplored.
• Existing metal nanoclusters lack significant structural diversity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel 2D gold nanocluster.
• To investigate its structural stability and catalytic properties.
• To explore its potential as a building block for larger nanostructures.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of Au76(p-MBT)42 nanoclusters.
• Structural characterization using advanced techniques.
• Evaluation of catalytic performance for CO2 electroreduction.

Main Results:

• Successful construction of the first 2D gold nanocluster, Au76(p-MBT)42.
• The nanocluster features an interlocked Au4 block kernel and a 72-gold-atom 2D pattern.
• Demonstrated exceptional catalytic efficiency for CO2 to CO electroreduction in various media.
• Identified the interlocking Au4 assembly as crucial for structural stability.

Conclusions:

• The novel 2D Au76(p-MBT)42 nanocluster offers unprecedented structural diversity.
• Its superior catalytic performance highlights its potential in CO2 conversion.
• This work provides a blueprint for constructing advanced topological nanocrystals using mechanically interlocked manipulation.