3-Dimensional Scanning of Entire Unit Cells in Single Nanoparticles.

Properties of nanomaterials such as optical, electrical, and chemical properties are strongly correlated with lattice symmetry, making characterization of lattice symmetry essential. We introduce a symmetry analysis method using 3D atomic coordinates obtained by Brownian one-particle 3D reconstruction. The method allows direct and quantitative analysis of symmetrical properties and delivers local structural characteristics of individual platinum (Pt) nanoparticles in unit-cell level. Local structural deformations of the Pt nanoparticles such as lattice distortion and internal symmetry breakage are demonstrated, revealing that the crystal structure of sub-3 nm Pt nanoparticles generally maintains FCC crystallinity and exhibits localized deviation from their bulk counterpart.

Automated summary

In this study, a method of symmetry analysis using 3D atomic coordinates is introduced, which provides a direct and quantitative analysis of the symmetrical properties and local structural characteristics of nanoparticles. The experimental results reveal the crystal structure features of platinum nanoparticles and demonstrate localized structural deformations different from their bulk counterpart.