Synthesis and Characterization of Transition and Group 13 metal Polynuclear Clusters

Inorganic cluster compounds have attracted attention for applications in a variety of novel materials. Metal oxide clusters in particular are of interest for use in areas ranging from understanding surface reactivity at oxide mineral surfaces in environmental systems to materials science applications for microelectronic devices and thin film transistors. We have developed a solution-based synthetic strategy for the preparation of discrete Group 13 tridecameric hydroxy/aquo clusters. The high-purity and aqueous nature of these clusters make them useful single-source precursors for high-performance inorganic films. Current interests look to expand this synthesis to transition metal clusters and characterize the Group 13 clusters in both the solid state and in solution.