The Role of Interface on the Properties of Cluster Assemblies

Atomic clusters characterized by finite size, low dimensionality, and reduced coordination number exhibit many novel properties that are very different from their bulk. As these clusters are assembled, their properties can be significantly altered due to the interaction of these clusters with each other as well as with their support. This paper provides a brief review of the cluster properties that are affected when clusters are deposited on metallic or organic substrates, isolated in matrices or in zeolite cages, coated with acetate ligands, or simply allowed to self-assemble without the presence of any reactive species. It is shown that the interface between the clusters and their support can play an important role on the properties of clusters as their unique characteristics do.