Alloy nanoclusters

Alloying is the oldest method to enhance the properties of metals which has also been adopted in nanoscale materials such as nanoclusters. The ultra-small (< 2 nm) nanoparticles with precise number of metal atoms and organic ligands are known as nanoclusters and they are widely studied due to their interesting properties. Their physical and chemical properties were improved after the incorporation of heterometals. Using various heterometals and synthetic procedures, the properties of alloy nanoclusters can be tuned. In this book chapter, we discuss the synthetic methods, geometric structures, physicochemical properties and applications of atomically precise multimetallic nanoclusters (NCs). A general introduction of alloys is given at first, followed by a historical background of the evolution of alloy nanotechnology. Later, a brief overview of alloy nanoparticles (NPs) and NCs is presented. Then, various synthetic methodologies of alloy NCs are discussed thoroughly. Geometric structures and properties of various well-known alloy NCs are also provided in detail. The chapter concludes with future prospect of alloy NC science.