Structures of Ni-doped B_n (n = 1–13) clusters: A computational study

The structural and stability properties of Ni-doped boron clusters (NiB_n with n = 1–13) are investigated by the SCG (systematic growth algorithm) method in combination with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results show that the Ni dopant adopt peripheral and top positions in the lowest-energy structures of NiB_n clusters. Planar and quasi-planar structures are found for n = 3–6, 10 and 11 while three-dimensional for n = 7–8, 12 and 13. The NiB_n clusters show slightly less binding energy compared to the pure B_n clusters. The relative stability of the clusters is rationalized through energetic parameters such as ionization potential, electron affinity, second order energy difference and HOMO–LUMO gap. The results show that NiB₁₂ possess magic characteristics, supported by the energetic parameters and AdNDP bonding analyses.