Reactions of Metal Cluster Ions

Abstract

In order to prove their extraordinary behaviour as a function of size, metal cluster ions, generated by sputtering, were investigated by a variety of experiments. In the gas phase, synthesis of size-selected nickel carbonyl clusters was carried out in a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The cluster compounds showed a sensitive photodetachment of ligands, which allows the full control of their CO coverage with laser desorption. The deposition of silver clusters on photographic films has revealed their catalytic activity during the development process, providing fascinating future perspectives.