Insight into the Size Evolution Transformation Process of the fcc-Based Au₂₈(SR)₂₀ Nanocluster

Abstract

It is essential to understand the evolution pattern of a periodic series of nanocluster structures and their properties to rationalize the design of new nanoclusters for a specific function. The lack of inherent periodicity in size among nanoclusters make this study quite challenging. Here we report a successful transformation of the Au28(SR)20 nanocluster, which is among the rare periodic series (gold quantum box) of gold nanoclusters, to the higher one in the series, the Au36(SR)24 cluster. On the basis of the mechanistic study and characterization of byproducts of this reaction, we put forward the postulate that this process involves the breakage of the staple as well as the core of Au28(SR)20, followed by restructuring into Au36(SR)24.