Precisely Controlled Metal Nanoclusters

Abstract

There have been remarkable advances in the development of gold nanoclusters protected by thiolates (Au n (SR) m ), and techniques for the synthesis and characterization of these materials have improved significantly, enabling Au n (SR) m to be synthesized with atomic precision. Experiments on the stabilities of clusters synthesized in this way have revealed a series of magic clusters, and the structures and physical and chemical properties of these magic clusters have subsequently been elucidated. Furthermore, several methods have been established for the functionalization of magic clusters. This chapter describes recent developments in Au n (SR) m cluster chemistry.