Cation exchange reactions permit postsynthetic modification of metal chalcogenide nanoparticles. Arresting such reactions prior to completion leads to partial exchange and the formation of interfaces and multiple phases within the nanoparticles. We use the principles of nanoparticle cation exchange to define a modular divergent synthesis strategy that sequentially transforms copper sulfide nanoparticles into a library of complex heterostructured derivatives. Starting with first-generation (G1) copper sulfide spheres, rods, and hexagonal plates, we partially exchange the Cu+ for Cd2+ or Zn2+ to define diverse intraparticle frameworks within second-generation (G2) nanoparticles. We then exchange the remaining Cu+ to produce third-generation (G3) nanoparticles that retain the morphology of the G1 precursors and the intraparticle frameworks of the G2 intermediates, but have entirely different compositions. Subsequent reactions provide access to even more sophisticated heterostructured particles, including asymmetric, patchy, porous, and sculpted nanostructures.

Sequential partial cation exchange reactions as a pathway to complex heterostructured nanoparticle libraries

256th National Meeting (2018)

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