Synthesis of microsized gold nanoplates by a self-seeding method in ethanol solution

Single-crystalline gold nanoplates with microsized edges have been synthesized by a simple self-seeding method with the assistance of aniline in an ethanol solution. The as-synthesized gold nanoplates showed strong absorption in near infrared region (NIR). Investigation suggests the amount of aniline added to the reaction solution plays a key role in the generation of nanoplates. A possible formation mechanism for these gold nanoplates is also proposed.