(734a) Ultrasmall Metal Nanoparticles With Molecular-Like Properties: Synthesis and Applications

In very recent years, ultrasmall metal nanoclusters with core sizes smaller than 2 nm have emerged as a new direction in nanoparticle research due to their discrete and size dependent electronic structures and molecular-like properties, such as HOMO-LUMO transitions in optical absorptions, quantized charging, and strong luminescence. Synthesis of high quality metal nanoclusters in sufficiently large quantities is necessary for establishing reliable size-property relationships and exploring potential applications. This presentation will summarize our recent progress in the development of novel synthetic strategies for the production of monodisperse metal nanoclusters. The preparation of monodisperse metal nanoclusters is viewed as engineerable process where both the precursors (input) and their conversion chemistry (processing) may be rationally designed to achieve the desired outcome – monodisperse metal nanoclusters (output). We will demonstrate several efficient strategies for tailoring the precursor and the conversion process, and present our understanding of the processes involved. We will also highlight some application developments of metal nanoclusters in important sustainability topics including sensors for environment and human health, and biomedical applications.