Nanocluster nucleation and growth kinetic and mechanistic studies: A review emphasizing transition-metal nanoclusters

Finney, Eric E. (Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University); Finke, Richard G. Source: Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, v 317, n 2, Jan 15, 2008, p 351-374

ISSN: 0021-9797 CODEN: JCISA5

Publisher: Academic Press Inc. 

Abstract: A review of the literature of kinetic and mechanistic studies of transition-metal nanocluster nucleation and growth is presented; the focus is on nucleation processes. A brief survey of nucleation theory is given first, with an emphasis on classical nucleation theory, as this is the logical starting point of transition-metal nanocluster nucleation and growth studies. The main experimental methods for following nanocluster formation are examined next-dynamic light scattering, UV-visible spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and X-ray spectroscopies-with special attention paid to their strengths and weaknesses. Several specific examples of transition-metal nanocluster formation are then given, beginning with LaMer's classic sulfur sol system and including the Finke-Watzky mechanism of slow continuous nucleation A -> B followed by fast autocatalytic surface growth A + B -> 2 B. Finally, brief overviews of semiconductor nanoparticle preparations, solid-state nucleation studies-emanating from Avrami's work-and protein agglomeration mechanistic studies are also provided, as these processes are relevant, conceptually and in a general sense, to the field of transition-metal nanocluster nucleation and growth mechanisms. © 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. (192 refs.)

terms: Nanoclusters - Dynamic light scattering - Electron microscopy - Growth (materials) - Nucleation - Transition metals - X ray spectroscopy