Fluorescent Metal Nanoclusters: A Note

Fluorescent metal nanoclusters (MNCs), which are ultra-small nanoparticles made up of a few to hundreds of metal atoms (Au, Ag, Cu, Pt, etc.) with core diameters smaller than 3 nm, are gaining popularity because of their unique properties, such as discrete energy levels, intense and tunable fluorescence, large Stokes shifts and remarkable catalytic properties. These features set them apart from conventional nanoparticles and make them perfect for use in sensing, biomedical, optoelectronics, and catalysis. This introductory chapter presents a brief summary of the synthesis, characterization and potential applications of MNCs. Furthermore, it provides an overview of this book and a brief outline of Chapters 2 to 14.