Article

The preparation, characterization, properties, and reactivity of a novel quantum-confined CdS nanocluster containing a chemically active aniline surface are described, along with three general methods for the covalent attachment of a wide scope of molecular moieties to the cluster surface. The formation of facile covalent linkages via DCC mediated amidization, secondary amine formation, and thiourea condensation is discussed and, as the introduction of surface functionality is crucial for the eventual realization of molecular electronic devices fabricated from such nanoclusters, several derivatized nanoclusters bearing interesting chromophoric, fluorescent, electroactive, and chiroptical tethered species are described. All three derivatization techniques occur under very mild conditions that have been demonstrated not to disturb the integrity of the nanocluster core.Key words: quantum dot, nanocluster, semiconductor, surface-functionalized, nanostructured.