Two-dimensional nanostructures with atomically precise building blocks have potential applications in catalysis and sensing. However, structural instability and surface reactivity limit their practical use. In this work, we demonstrate the formation of vertically aligned nanoplates of the [Co6S8DPPE6Cl6] cluster (Co6 in short), protected by 1,2-bis­(diphenylphosphino)­ethane, using ambient electrospray deposition (ESD). Charged microdroplets of Co6 formed by ESD on a water surface created such nanostructures. Preferential arrangement of clusters in the nanoplates with enhanced surface area results in sensitive and selective electrochemical response toward arsenite down to 5 parts per billion, in tap water. Density functional theory calculations reveal the preferential binding of arsenite with Co6. Our work points to a practical application of atomically precise clusters of large societal relevance.

No abstract

A frugal humidity sensor that can detect changes in the humidity of exhaled breath of individuals has been fabricated. The sensor comprises a humiditysensitive conducting polymer that is in situ formed on a cloth that acts as a substrate. Interdigitated silver electrodes were screen-printed on the modified cloth, and conducting threads connected the electrodes to the measurement circuit. The sensor's response to changing humidity was measured as a voltage drop across the sensor using a microcontroller. The sensor was capable of discerning between fast, normal, and slow breathing based on the response time. A response time of ∼1.3 s was observed for fast breathing. An Android-based mobile application was designed to collect sensor data via Bluetooth for analysis. A time series classification algorithm was implemented to analyze patterns in breathing. The sensor was later stitched onto a face mask, transforming it into a smart mask that can monitor changes in the breathing pattern at work, play, and sleep.

T he chemistry of nanoparticles with atomic precision has become a subject of interest due to the unique physical and chemical properties of these systems in comparison to their bulk counterparts. Nanoparticles typically contain thousands of atoms, arranged in a specific fashion. There is a need to bridge the gap between single atoms and nanoparticles to understand the size evolution of matter. This regime, composed of a few atoms, is called nanoclusters having size in the range of 1 to 3 nm, with a precise number of atoms, with well-defined structure and properties. Most of studied materials in this class are composed of noble metals. Various techniques, including UV/vis spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and single crystal XRD, reveal their molecular nature. Their unique electronic properties can be used for applications in the fields of catalysis, sensing, magnetism, medicinal, bio-imaging, etc. This article touches upon the basics of nanoclusters, their synthesis, characterization, atomic structures, and supramolecular arrangements. We hope that this work provides a brief understanding of nanoclusters and inspires young scientists to conduct research in the chemistry of clusters.www.asiachem.news

No abstract