Facile deposition of gold nanoparticle thin films on semi-permeable cellulose substrate

This study reports the facile method for the deposition of gold nanoparticle thin film onto a monoporous semi-permeable cellulose membrane through the diffusion of borohydride ions leading to the reduction of AuCl4−AuCl4− ions. The synthesis of gold nanoparticle thin film was deposited on one side of the membrane that was exposed to AuCl4−AuCl4− ions while the other side containing a reducing agent remained clear. The gold nanoparticle thin film exhibited a broad surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 529 nm. Various characterization techniques were employed and all demonstrated the presence of gold thin film. The reported method represents a simplistic method for the deposition of gold nanoparticle thin films and various other metal nanoparticles may be deposited following this method.

Facile method for the deposition of gold nanoparticle thin film onto a monoporous semi-permeable cellulose membrane through the diffusion of borohydride ions leading to the reduction of AuCl4−AuCl4− ions. The chemical structure of cellulose, schematic representation of the experimental setup before and after the reaction has occurred. Initially, the reducing (NaBH4) and the AuCl4−AuCl4− solution are separated by the cellulose membrane. During the experiment, the borohydride ions traverse through the membrane leading to the reduction of AuCl4−AuCl4− and the formation of gold thin film on the inside of the membrane.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Facile method of gold thin film preparation and deposition.
► Gold nanoparticles thin films deposition on regenerated cellulose membrane.
► Gold thin films were stable upon rehydration of the membrane.