Molecular precursor grafting method nanoparticles

Abstract A review of the thermolytic molecular precursor (TMP) method for the generation of multi-component oxide materials is presented. Various adaptations of the TMP method that allow for the preparation of a wide range of materials are described. Further, the generation of isolated catalytic centers (via grafting techniques) and mesoporous materials (via use of organic templates) is simimarized. The implications for syntheses of new catalysts, catalyst supports, nanoparticles, mesoporous oxides, and other novel materials are discussed. 

The continued development of new single-source molecular precursors should lead to increasingly complex mixed-element oxides with novel properties. Continued work with grafting methods will provide access to novel surface structures that may prove useful for catalytic apphcations. Use of molecular precursors for the generation of metal nanoparticles supported on various oxide supports is another area that shows promise. We expect that the thermolytic molecular precursor methods outlined here will contribute significantly to the development of new generations of advanced materials with tailored properties, and that it will continue to provide access to catalytic materials with improved performance. 

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