Chemiluminescence of luminol catalyzed by silver nanoparticles

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are synthesized by chemical reduction method and characterized by UV–vis spectra, transmission electron microscopy, and high performance particle sizer. We have found that AgNPs could enhance the chemiluminescence (CL) intensity of luminol–H2O2 system. In this reaction, luminol intermediate is generated under alkaline condition on the surface of AgNPs in luminol–H2O2 system and enhances CL intensity. To validate the reaction mechanism, AgNPs are bound with thioglycolic acid (Ag–HSCH2COOH) and then joined to BSA protein (Ag–BSA). We investigate the CL intensity in the presence of Ag–HSCH2COOH or Ag–BSA comparing with that in the presence of AgNPs and conclude the catalytic reaction take place on the surface of AgNPs.

The figure shows chemiluminescence spectra of silver nanoparticles of different diameters. Silver nanoparticles could enhance the chemiluminescence intensity of luminol–H2O2 system.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide