Segets D., Damm C., Yang G., Spiecker E., Peukert W.
Friedrich-Alexander University, DE
Keywords: defect structure, metal nanoparticles, shape stability
In the last years an increasing number of publications addressed the relationship between particle shape and the electro-optical product properties. Especially anisotropic metal particles e.g. gold or silver were found to be promising candidates as a variety of different particle shapes like triangles, cubes or rods can by synthesized with comparatively low effort. In contrast to the already well established ripening mechanisms of spherical particles by Ostwald ripening or their stabilization against agglomeration, the shape stability of non-spherical particles was seldom investigated and is thus not sufficiently understood. Therefore the current work addresses the ripening of gold and silver nanorods with time towards spherical particle shapes. Especially high-resolution TEM images reveal defects like five-fold twinning of the rods along their c-axis which are leading to a decay of the nanorods with time. The shape change is characterized further using UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy, SEM and anodic stripping voltammetry.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2010: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 383 - 386
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Nanoparticle Synthesis & Applications
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3401-5