Gold nanoclusters exhibit a vast range of applications from photocatalysis to quantum computing. This project explores the synthesis of magic-numbered gold nanoclusters made of 25 atoms, investigating the process behind cleaning and characterizing clusters to achieve said applications. In addition, these clusters are doped with iron through a co-reduction method. Through the addition of a reducing agent, the gold and iron salts are transformed to an oxidation state where they can form nanoclusters. The bi-icosahedral structure is then protected by a ligand (through the thiol group) preventing it from aggregating. These clusters sit in a chloroform-ethanol mixture, allowing for the formation of the bi-icosahedral cluster. Not yet ready for application purposes, the clusters are then cleaned with various solvents, getting rid of waste to produce purified product as a result of solvent fractionation. The purified products are then characterized through a few instrumental methods, such as measuring the UV-vis spectra, fluorescence (quantum yield), nuclear magnetic resonance, and extinction coefficient. Synthesis of these clusters involves the adjustment of procedural factors to amplify properties that aid in their applications. Specifically, work is done studying the amplification of optical properties like fluorescence quantum yield. These would allow for applications within photocatalysis, sensing, and multiphoton imaging. The biocompatibility of gold and iron also allows for these clusters to act as biomarkers, as well as targeted drug delivery agents. The project focuses on the reproducibility of the product, as well as the use of a secondary metal to expand the range of already widespread applications.

Synthesis and characterization of iron-doped biicosahedral Au<sub>25</sub> nanoclusters

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Synthesis and characterization of iron-doped biicosahedral Au25 nanoclusters

Synthesis and characterization of iron-doped biicosahedral Au₂₅ nanoclusters