On the origin of the cation templated self-assembly of uranyl-peroxide nanoclusters

Uranyl-peroxide nanoclusters display different topologies based on square, pentagonal and hexagonal building blocks. Computed complexation energies of different cations (Li⁺, Na⁺, K⁺, Rb⁺, and Cs⁺) with [UO₂(O₂)(H₂O)]_n (n = 4, 5, and 6) macrocycles suggest a strong cation templating effect. The inherent bent structure of a U-O₂-U model dimer is demonstrated and justified through the analysis of its electronic structure, as well as of the inherent curvature of the four-, five-, and six-uranyl macrocyles. The curvature is enhaced by cation coordination, which is suggested to be the driving force for the self-assembly of the nanocapsules.