Abstract
The synthesis of an alloy nanocluster that is atomically precise is the key to understanding the metal synergy effect at the atomic level. Using the Ag2Au25(SR)18 nanocluster as a model, we reported a third approach for the metal exchange reaction, that is, intramolecular metal exchange. The surface adsorbed metal ions (i.e., Ag) can be exchanged with the kernel metal atoms (i.e., Au) that are promoted by thiol ligands. The exchanged gold atoms can be further stripped by the thiol ligands, and produce the AgxAu25−x(SR)18− nanocluster.
Highlights
Precise alloy nanoclusters have recently attracted great interest due to their quantum size effect-induced unique optical and catalysis properties [1,2]
Galvanic replacement is widely used in the synthesis of alloy nanoclusters
It is a challenge to synthesize an alloy nanocluster with this method, since the metal nanocluster, which is comprised by active metals, are quite unstable and rarely reported [4]
Summary
Precise alloy nanoclusters have recently attracted great interest due to their quantum size effect-induced unique optical and catalysis properties [1,2]. With their well determined structure, the relationship between their structure and properties can be grasped at the atomic level. Pradeep and co-workers reported the reaction between Ag25(SR)18− and Au25(SR)18− to produce the AgxAu25−x(SR)18− nanocluster [16] Based on these two methods, a series of alloy nanoclusters with atomically precise structures have been synthesized; such alloy products have been widely used to study metal synergistic effects in chirality, [19] optics [20,21], and catalysis [22] at the atomic level. The UV-Vis, thin layer chromatography, and mass spectra indicate the efficient transformation of this self-alloying process
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
