Ligand engineering for designing atomically precise metal nanoclusters and cluster-assemblies for potential applications

Atom-precise metal nanoclusters have emerged as a class of materials with unique structural and electronic properties, driven by quantum size effects and precise atomic arrangements. This review delves into recent advancements in the field, focusing on key aspects, such as ligand exchange reactions, structural characterization and catalytic properties of copper nanoclusters (NCs), development of silver cluster-assembled materials with enhanced stability and properties, and stabilization of NCs in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). Synthesis of specific clusters for desired applications can be attained through ligand exchange transformation reaction. Among the coinage metal ions, the research on copper NCs is less explored due to low redox potential. Still, there are some reports with unique structural architecture that exhibit catalytic properties. Stability and properties of clusters can be enhanced by linking the cluster to higher dimensional or embedded into the porous MOF structures.

Graphical abstract

This review discusses some of the recent advancements achieved in the field of nanoclusters and their assemblies, ranging from fundamental studies to structure-property correlation and applications.