Absolute Templating of M(111) Cluster Surrogates by Galvanic Exchange

The precise preparation of monodisperse nano­materials is among the most fundamental tasks in inorganic synthesis and materials science. Achieving this goal by galvanic exchange is hardly predictable and often results in major structural changes and polydisperse mixtures. Taking advantage of the enhanced stability imparted by ambiphilic carbenes, we report and rationalize the absolute templating, the complete exchange of metals in a template, of group 11 clusters across the entire coinage metal family by means of galvanic exchange. We further delineate that these species provide a molecular model for better understanding the reduction of CO2 at M(111) coinage metal surfaces.