Orientational and translational ordering of sub-monolayer films of passivated multiply-twinned gold clusters

The influence of the substrate on the translational and orientational order ing in sub-monolayer films of passivated multiply-twinned gold clusters has been investigated using high resolution and dark field transmission electr on microscopy. Although clear differences were observed in the degree of tr anslational ordering on amorphous carbon and etched silicon substrates, the re was no corresponding variation in the crystallographic orientation of th e nanocrystal cores. The results demonstrate that the orientation of passiv ated clusters with multiply-twinned cores is effectively random with respec t to both the superlattice and the substrate.