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Free, publicly-accessible full text available August 20, 2025
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Free, publicly-accessible full text available September 16, 2025
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The reactivity of Bin−clusters (n= 2 to 30) with O2is found to display even-odd alternations. The open-shell even-sized Bin−clusters are more reactive than the closed-shell odd-sized clusters, except Bi18−, which exhibits no observable reactivity toward O2. We have investigated the structure and bonding of Bi18−to understand its remarkable resistance to oxidation. We find that the most stable structure of Bi18−consists of two Bi8cages linked by a Bi2dimer, where each atom is bonded to three neighboring atoms. Chemical bonding analyses reveal that each Bi uses its three 6pelectrons to form three covalent bonds with its neighbors, resulting in a Bi18−cluster without any dangling bonds. We find that the robust Bi18framework along with the totally delocalized unpaired electron is responsible for the surprising inertness of Bi18−toward O2. The Bi18framework is similar to that in Hittorf’s phosphorus, suggesting the possibility to create bismuth nanoclusters with interesting structures and properties.more » « lessFree, publicly-accessible full text available November 1, 2025
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Abstract Borophenes have sparked considerable interest owing to their fascinating physical characteristics and diverse polymorphism. However, borophene nanoribbons (BNRs) with widths less than 2 nm have not been achieved. Herein, we report the experimental realization of supernarrow BNRs. Combining scanning tunneling microscopy imaging with density functional theory modeling and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, we demonstrate that, under the applied growth conditions, boron atoms can penetrate the outermost layer of Au(111) and form BNRs composed of a pair of zigzag (2,2) boron rows. The BNRs have a width self‐contained to ∼1 nm and dipoles at the edges to keep them separated. They are embedded in the outermost Au layer and shielded on top by the evacuated Au atoms, free of the need for post‐passivation. Scanning tunneling spectroscopy reveals distinct edge states, primarily attributed to the localized spin at the BNRs’ zigzag edges. This work adds a new member to the boron material family and introduces a new physical feature to borophenes.more » « lessFree, publicly-accessible full text available July 8, 2025