Ce-oxo clusters
CeO2 retains important light absorption properties even at smallest sizes.
Atomically precise 1-2 nm Ce-oxo clusters are prepared and their light absorption properties are studied. Read the full story here: Chem. Sci., 2025,16,11659-11668
CeO2 is an important material which can absorb (sun)light and promote photoredox processes. The Pike Group have discovered that CeO2 retains its light absorption properties even at the smallest (molecular) sizes. 1-2 nm Ce-oxo clusters show similar light absorption to larger CeO2 nanoparticles, but sometimes with added intervalence charge transfer absorptions in the visible range. This indicates that ultrasmall CeO2 with exceptional surface area and atom economy can be just as useful (if not better!) in photocatalytic processes!