Overview
- Scientists at the University of Nottingham and Ulm University observed that some atoms in molten platinum, gold, and palladium nanoparticles remain stationary at graphene defects.
- Using the SALVE transmission electron microscope, the team increased graphene point defects with the electron beam to control the number of pinned atoms and the level of confinement.
- When stationary atoms formed a ring-like atomic corral, the liquid metal stayed fluid deep into the supercooled regime, for platinum down to roughly 350°C.
- The confined liquids eventually solidified as amorphous, glass-like metals that reverted to normal crystals once the atomic corral was disrupted.
- The peer-reviewed study, reported as the first instance of atomic corralling, was published December 9 in ACS Nano and suggests potential—yet unproven—applications in catalyst design and energy materials.