Co-reactant-Free Transformation in Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters

Transformation chemistry has advanced significantly in recent years as an excellent methodology for synthesizing new nanoclusters and functionalizing the existing ones. However, rational synthesis and fundamental understanding of the structural evolution among clusters have not yet been achieved in nanocluster science. A deeper understanding of the fundamental aspects of structure-property correlation is necessary for the employment of befitting nanoclusters for specific applications. Very recently, the transformation of nanoclusters without the use of conventional co-reactants has been brought to light. These co-reactant-less transformations are triggered by various conditions, such as pH, solvent, light, temperature, etc. In this perspective, we discuss how this unique method of transformation without any co-reactant benefits the basic understanding of growth patterns and the corresponding property evolution in nanoclusters.

Automated summary

Transformation chemistry has made significant advancements in synthesizing and functionalizing nanoclusters. However, the rational synthesis and understanding of structural evolution in nanoclusters are yet to be achieved. Recently, co-reactant-less transformations of nanoclusters have been revealed, triggered by various conditions such as pH, solvent, light, and temperature. In this perspective, the authors discuss how this unique transformation method contributes to the understanding of growth patterns and property evolution in nanoclusters.