On-surface synthesis of size- and shape-controlled two-dimensional Aun nanoclusters using a flexible fullerene molecular template. Issue 42 (27th October 2020) - Guo, Lu'an
Abstract : Formation of gold nanoclusters within a C60 matrix. Abstract : Synthesizing nano-clusters with a well-defined size, shape, and composition is an important and challenging goal in nanotechnology. Here we report the application of a single layer C60 molecule as an effective molecular template for the synthesis of size- and shape-selected two-dimensional gold clusters (Au n ) on a graphite substrate. This molecular template facilitates the preferential formation of Au19 clusters with a selectivity as high as 90%. Density-functional-theory (DFT) calculations found an energy minimum associated with C60 -stabilized two-dimensional Au19 clusters.