On account of their small size, metal nanoparticles are proven to be outstanding catalysts for numerous chemical transformations and represent promising platforms for applications in the fields of electronics, chemical sensing, medicine, and beyond. However, a detailed understanding of metal precursor transformation to compositionally- and structurally- complex metal nanostructures remains a crucial need as it directly relates to nanoparticle nucleation and growth. This collaborative study between Victoria University of Wellington and Indiana University, enabled by GREET, builds on complementary knowledge on the synthesis of shape-controlled metal nanostructures by individuals in the host and visiting laboratories. Progress was made toward designing and understanding the synthesis of palladium-based nanostructures with applications in catalysis. Specifically, the role of Pd precursor selection in the synthesis of monometallic and bimetallic nanostructures via seeded growth is investigated. The outcomes of the unified perspective of host and visiting researcher expertise prove: i) a direct connection between fundamental principles of coordination chemistry and nanoparticle formation and ii) a stronger foundation for the predictive synthesis of future nanostructures with defined features. Additionally, a cross-cultural perspective to adapting to life internationally and appreciation of differences in and out of the laboratory will be discussed.

Investigating the role of Pd precursor selection for the synthesis of monometallic and bimetallic nanostructures

245th National Meeting (2013)

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