Toward the Solution Synthesis of the Tetrahedral Au{sub 20} Cluster

Journal Article · Thu Aug 19 00:00:00 EDT 2004 · Journal of Physical Chemistry B

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/jp048636q· OSTI ID:15016092

Zhang, Haifeng; Stender, Matthias; Zhang, Rui; Wang, Chong M; Li, Jun; Wang, Lai S

We report solution synthesis of the recently discovered tetrahedral Au{sub 20} cluster coordinated with eight PPh{sub 3} (Ph = Phenyl) ligands. The composition and molecular weight of the Au{sub 20} (PPh{sub 3}){sub 8} complex were confirmed by the isotopic pattern of its doubly charged cation using high resolution mass spectrometry. Collision-induced dissociation experiment showed that four PPh{sub 3} can be easily dissociated from Au{sub 20} (PPh{sub 3}){sub 8}{sup 2+}, resulting in a highly stable Au{sub 20} (PPh{sub 3}){sub 4}{sup 2+} molecule. This observation is consistent with the tetrahedral structure, in which the four apex sites are expected to be strongly bound to the PPh{sub 3} ligands, and is confirmed by theoretical calculations, which predicted a highly stable Au{sub 20} (PH{sub 3}){sub 4} complex with Au-PH{sub 3} bond energies of {approx}1 eV. The current experimental and theoretical observations suggest that large quantity of ligand-stabilized tetrahedral Au{sub 20} can be obtained, opening the door for exploring its anticipated novel chemical, optical, and catalytical properties.

• Research Organization: Pacific Northwest National Lab., Richland, WA (US), Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory (US)
• Sponsoring Organization: US Department of Energy (US)
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-76RL01830
• OSTI ID: 15016092
• Report Number(s): PNNL-SA-41672; 7201; KC0201020; TRN: US200509%%870
• Journal Information: Journal of Physical Chemistry B, Vol. 108, Issue 33; Other Information: PBD: 19 Aug 2004
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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