Cation Exchange Induced Transformation of InP Magic-Sized Clusters

Magic-sized clusters (MSCs) can provide valuable insight into the atomically precise progression of semiconductor nanocrystal transformations. We report the conversion of an InP MSC to a Cd3P2 MSC through a cation exchange mechanism and attempt to shed light on the evolution of the physical and electronic structure of the clusters during the transformation. Utilizing a combination of spectroscopic (NMR/UV–vis) and structural characterization (ICP-OES/MS/PXRD/XPS/PDF) tools, we demonstrate retention of the original InP MSC crystal lattice as Z-type ligand exchange initially occurs. Further cation exchange induces lattice relaxation and a significant structural rearrangement. These observations contrast with reports of cation exchange in InP quantum dots, indicating unique reactivity of the InP MSC.