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.