Total Structure of Bimetallic Core–Shell [Au<sub>42</sub>Cd<sub>40</sub>(SR)<sub>52</sub>]<sup>2−</sup> Nanocluster and Its Implications
Li Tang, Along Ma, Cheng Zhang, Xuguang Liu, Rongchao Jin, Shuxin Wang
Abstract
Abstract Bimetallic core–shell nanostructures hold great promise in elucidating the bimetallic synergism. However, it remains a challenge to construct atomically precise core–shell with high‐valence active metals on the gold surface. In this work, we report the total structure of a [Au 42 Cd 40 (SR) 52 ] 2− core–shell nanocluster and multiple implications. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) reveals that the structure possesses a two‐shelled Au 6 @Au 36 core and a closed cadmium shell of Cd 40 , and the core–shell structure is then protected by 52 thiolate (‐SR) ligands. The composition of the nanocluster is further confirmed by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS). A catalytic test for styrene oxidation and a comparison with relevant nanoclusters reveal the surface effect on the catalytic activity and selectivity.