Rational assembly of metal-oxo clusters into molecular materials via a wheel mounting mode

We devised a new self-assembly method towards the construction of molecular materials via a wheel mounting mode of [Ti3M] (M = Co or Zn) clusters. Assembly of these clusters was designable and customizable into desirable size, shape, and properties. An optical-driven molecular transition was realized with the stimulus-response of photochromism. This work not only provides an approach towards predictable and designable clusters, it also establishes a cluster-based structural model of molecular materials.

Automated summary

A new self-assembly method using [Ti3M] (M = Co or Zn) clusters was devised for customizable construction of molecular materials. The optical-driven molecular transition with photochromism established a cluster-based structural model of molecular materials, offering a predictable and designable approach.