Controlled nucleation and growth of surface-confined gold nanoparticles on a (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane-modified class slide: A strategy for SPR substrates

The thickness of the gold film and its morphology, including the surface roughness, are very important for getting a good, reproducible response in the SPR technique. Here, we report a novel alternative approach for preparing SPR-active substrates that is completely solution-based. Our strategy is based on self-assembly of the gold colloid monolayer on a (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane-modified glass slide, followed by electroless gold plating. Using this method, the thickness of films can be easily controlled at the nanometer scale by setting the plating time in the same conditions. Surface roughness and morphology of gold films can be modified by both tuning the size of gold nanoparticles and agitation during the plating. Surface evolution of the Au film was followed in real time by UV-vis spectroscopy and in situ SPRS. To assess the surface roughness and electrochemical stability of the Au films, atomic force microscopy and cyclic voltammetry were used. In addition, the stability of the gold adhesion is demonstrated by three methods. The as-prepared Au films on substrates are reproducible and stable, which allows them to be used as electrodes for electrochemical experiments and as platforms for studying SAMs.

The effect of surface structure on the photoluminescence of SnO2 nanoparticles in hydrosols and organosols

In this paper, we report the optical properties of SnO2 semiconductor nanoparticles in hydrosols and those of SnO2 semiconductor nanoparticles in organosols in which the surfaces of the particles are coated by a layer of organic surfactant molecules. The photoluminescence spectra of SnO2 semiconductor nanoparticles in the hydrosols and organosols in different conditions were measured and discussed. We conclude that the surface structure of the SnO2 semiconductor nanoparticles affects their optical properties strongly. The oxygen deficiencies on the surface of SnO2 semiconductor nanoparticles play an important role in the optical properties. The surface modification of the particles effectively removes the surface defects of the particles and enhances the intensity of luminescence.