Group 10 Metal Allyl Amidinates: A Family of Readily Accessible and Stable Molecular Precursors to Generate Supported Nanoparticles

Abstract

The synthesis of well-defined materials as model systemsfor catalysisand related fields is an important pillar in the understanding ofcatalytic processes at a molecular level. Various approaches employingorganometallic precursors have been developed and established to makemonodispersed supported nanoparticles, nanocrystals, and films. Usingrational design principles, a new family of precursors based on group10 metals suitable for the generation of small and monodispersed nanoparticleson metal oxides has been developed. Particle formation on SiO2 and Al2O3 supports is demonstrated,as well as the potential in the synthesis of bimetallic catalyst materials,exemplified by a PdGa/SiO2 system capable of hydrogenationof CO2 to methanol. In addition to surface organometallicchemistry (SOMC), it is envisioned that these precursors could alsobe employed in related applications, such as atomic layer deposition,due to their inherent volatility and relative thermal stability.