Precise Synthesis of Nanoparticles and Their Catalytic Behavior

This review provides a summary of the main concepts employed to prepare nanoparticles (NPs) and clusters encapsulated by dendrimers, their catalytic applications, and interesting research and trends in this field. Dendrimers not only serve as synthesis templates for the preparation of NPs but also stabilize the NPs against leaching and aggregation, which makes it possible to tune the functionality of the peripheral groups and bridge the gap between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalyses. In particular, π-conjugated dendrimers, referred to as dendritic poly(phenylazomethine)s (DPA), are regarded as reactors for synthesizing sub-nanoscale clusters with atomic-level precision, even using different elements. This new synthesis technology has significant potentials for enabling enhanced activity, selectivity, and stability of catalysts.