# Spatially Mapping Electronic Structures of Atomically Precise Copper Nanoclusters Using Advanced Crystallography

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Illinois at Chicago (IL) · $388,983

## Abstract

With support from the Chemical Mechanism, Function, and Properties Program of the Division of Chemistry, Professor Neal Mankad at the University of Illinois Chicago is investigating small, well-defined clusters of copper atoms. These clusters can help scientists better understand nano-catalysts — materials that play vital roles in speeding up chemical reactions in both industry and research but are often difficult to study because their structures are not well understood. This project uses advanced X-ray techniques to map where electrons are located within these copper clusters, revealing how the arrangement of atoms affects their chemical behavior. By learning how electrons are distributed, scientists gain valuable insights that can help design better catalysts. This work sits at the intersection of physical, inorganic, and materials chemistry and offers top-tier training opportunities for students and researchers at all stages.

Copper (Cu) catalysts are widely used to promote reactions including, but not limited to, hydrogenation and electroreduction of carbon dioxide. However, the active sites in these heterogeneous systems are often structurally ill-defined and difficult to probe with atomic-level precision. This project is guided by the central hypothesis that resolving the electronic structures of individual Cu atoms within atomically precise nanoclusters (APNCs) will enhance understanding by enabling correlations between molecular electronic structure and the local 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2451851
- **Awardee organization:** University of Illinois at Chicago (IL)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** W8XEAJDKMXH3
- **PI:** Neal P Mankad
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $388,983
- **Funds obligated:** $388,983
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2451851

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2451851, Spatially Mapping Electronic Structures of Atomically Precise Copper Nanoclusters Using Advanced Crystallography. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2451851. Licensed CC0.

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