Functionalization, Modification, and Transformation of Platinum Chini Clusters

In this microreview, the authors summarize the reactions of [Pt-3n(CO)(6n)](2-) (n = 1-10) Chini clusters aimed at their functionalization, modification and transformation. The results are organized on the basis of the fact that the final products do or do not retain the structure of the parent Chini clusters. The first category comprises the redox reactions of homoleptic Chini clusters, CO/phosphine substitution affording heteroleptic Chini-type clusters and the formation of Lewis acid-base adducts by capping the external Pt-3-triangular faces with Lewis acids. The second category consists of globular molecular platinum nanoclusters (platinum browns) obtained by thermal decomposition of Chini clusters, as well as surface decorated platinum carbonyl clusters, composed of a low valent Pt-CO core decorated by cationic metal fragments. The relevance of such species to molecular cluster chemistry and metal nanoclusters is outlined.