Atomically Precise Clusters: Chemical Evolution of Molecular Matter at the Nanoscale

Abstract

The chemistry of nanoparticles with atomic precision has become a subject of interest due to the unique physical and chemical properties of these systems in comparison to their bulk counterparts. Nanoparticles typically contain thousands of atoms, arranged in a specific fashion. There is a need to bridge the gap between single atoms and nanoparticles to understand the size evolution of matter. This regime, composed of a few atoms, is called nanoclusters having size in the range of 1 to 3 nm, with a precise number of atoms, with well-defined structure and properties. Most of studied materials in this class are composed of noble metals. Various techniques, including UV/vis spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and single crystal XRD, reveal their molecular nature. Their unique electronic properties can be used for applications in the fields of catalysis, sensing, magnetism, medicinal, bio-imaging, etc. This article touches upon the basics of nanoclusters, their synthesis, characterization, atomic structures, and supramolecular arrangements. We hope that this work provides a brief understanding of nanoclusters and inspires young scientists to conduct research in the chemistry of clusters.