Slice Visualization for Imaging Nanocluster Transformations.

Metal nanoclusters have served as an emerging class of modular nanomaterials. Several efficient strategies have been proposed for transforming cluster precursors into new nanoclusters with customized structures and enhanced performance. However, such nanocluster transformations have still been in a "blind box" state, meaning that the existing intermediates were hard to track with atomic precision. Herein, we present a "slice visualization" approach for in-depth imaging of the nanocluster transformation from AuAg(SR) to AuAg(SR). With this approach, two cluster intermediates, namely, AuAg(SR) and AuAg(SR), were monitored with atomic precision. The four nanoclusters constituted a correlated AuAg ( = 0, 1, 2, and 3) cluster series with comparable structural features─the same AuAg icosahedral kernel but evolutionary peripheral motif structures. The mechanism of nanocluster structure growth was mapped in detail─insertion of Ag(SR) or Ag-induced assembly of surface subunits. The presented "slice visualization" approach not only contributes an ideal cluster platform for in-depth investigations of structure-property correlations but also hopefully acts as a powerful means for obtaining clear information on nanocluster structure evolution.