Why Do Nanoparticles Use Metals Like Gold & Silver?

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SUMMARY

Nanoparticles are predominantly composed of metals such as gold and silver due to their ease of production and unique physical properties. The ability of metals to melt and form droplets that solidify into nanoparticles is a significant advantage over ceramics and organic materials. Historical methods, such as those developed by Faraday 150 years ago, laid the groundwork for the production of these nanoparticles. Additionally, their applications in biosensors and lab-on-chip sensors leverage the phenomenon of surface plasmon resonance, enhancing their utility in various scientific fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nanoparticle synthesis techniques
  • Familiarity with surface plasmon resonance
  • Basic knowledge of materials science, particularly metals
  • Awareness of applications in biosensing technologies
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for synthesizing gold and silver nanoparticles
  • Explore the principles of surface plasmon resonance in detail
  • Investigate the applications of metal nanoparticles in biosensing
  • Learn about the comparison of metal nanoparticles with ceramics and organic materials
USEFUL FOR

Researchers in nanotechnology, materials scientists, and professionals involved in the development of biosensors and lab-on-chip technologies will benefit from this discussion.

krishna mohan
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Fairly straightforward question: Why are nanoparticles generally made using metal, that too generally using gold, silver etc?
 
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I think it's because it's relatively easy. Any physics department can quite readily set up a lab to produce and measure metal nanoparticles. But I suppose the technical reason is that metals can melt and form droplets, which then solidify as nanoparticles. Ceramics and organic materials don't necessarily melt and evaporate as well.
 
Yeah, I'm no nanoperson, but I'd go with 'ease'. Faraday famously figured out how to make gold and silver nanoparticles 150 years ago.
 
Ease of formation is not the only reason. These nanoparticles have use as biosensors and other lab-on-chip sensors due to the phenomenon of surface plasmon resonance.
 

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