Precise metal nanoclusters: Linking the atomic world to photonic applications

Atomic precision is one of the ultimate research goals for nano-science and nanotechnology, yet it is still a huge challenge. In a recent work published in Science, an effective method was demon-strated to develop novel atomically precise metal nanoclusters as new types of promising low-loss optical waveguides and highly polarized emitters, filling the gap between the atomic world and macroscopic photonic properties. This study thus stimulates the development of advanced nanomaterials for promising applications in micro/nanophotonics.