Photoluminescence of metal nanoclusters

Fluorescence is one of the most attractive properties of metal nanoclusters owing to its induced great application potential for nanoclusters in several applications. In this article, we summarized the approaches to tailor the fluorescence of metal nanoclusters, including (1) the control over metallic kernels, (2) the control over peripheral ligands, (3) the control over counterions, (4) the exploiting of aggregation-induced emission, (5) the regulation of ambient conditions. We then reviewed the applications of these emissive nanoclusters. At last, scope for improvements and future perspectives on this research field are highlighted. This article will be useful to researchers attempting to understand and/or design new emissive nanoclusters with desired functionalities.