Metal Atoms on Surfaces & Interfaces (MASI) for Sustainable Future

At the core of MASI is the fundamental science of metal nanoclusters (MNC), which goes beyond the traditional realm of nanoparticles towards the nanometre and sub-nanometre domain including single metal atoms (SMA). The overall goals of the MASI project are to provide a solution for a sustainable use of scarce metals of technological importance (e.g. Pt, Au, Pd), by maximising utilisation of every atom, and to unlock new properties that emerge in metals only at the atomic scale, allowing for the substitution of critical metals with abundant ones (e.g. Pt with Ni). Additionally, it seeks to provide a platform for the next generation of materials for energy, catalysis and electronics applications.

Following the development of a theoretical framework and the instrumentation required to directly break bulk metals into metal atoms or nanoclusters with precise control over their size, shape, and composition, the atomic-scale control of nanocluster fabrication will enable the programming of their chemistry. This breakthrough will allow for the electronic, catalytic, or electrochemical properties of abundant metals like nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co) to mimic those of endangered metals such as platinum (Pt) and ruthenium (Ru) at the nanometer and sub-nanometer scales. Moreover, by carefully dispersing endangered elements with abundant ones in alloy nanoclusters, it will be possible to achieve remarkable chemical properties while conserving rare resources.