Metallic nanocluster materials: Separation, crystallization, pressure and magnetism.

One of the most interesting aspects of metallic nanoclusters is the electronic shell structure known to be present [1], resulting in discrete and molecular like energy levels, where the valence electrons of the core can occupy a new set of “superatomic” orbitals, analogous to atomic orbitals where a closed shell confers stability and the same spherical harmonics are exhibited [2]. The molecular like state of these clusters opens up the possibility to form new types of materials based on cluster building blocks. Various organically passivated metallic clusters are known to exhibit this electronic shell structure and crystallize into superstructures.
How the superatomic orbitals interact with one another under close proximity or how they are effected by external stimuli is of great interest for the development of these materials for advanced applications. Furthermore, improving the purity and separation of said building blocks is thus important for manufacture of high quality crystals for examination. Our work looks into these subjects for the advancement and development of cluster materials.