Halide ion controlled shape dependent gold nanoparticle synthesis with tryptophan as reducing agent: Enhanced fluorescent properties and white light emission

We report the synthesis of Au nanoparticles in presence of two surfactants cetyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (CTAC) and cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) by reducing Au3+ ions with tryptophan. Interestingly, triangular shaped particles were seen to form in presence of CTAB, while spherical nanoparticles resulted with CTAC. The highlight of this result is the white light emission from the Au triangles obtained when CTAB is used. These results are supported by lifetime measurements and fluorescence.

Graphical abstractThe synthesis of Au nanotriangles in presence of cetyltrimethyl ammonium cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide by reducing Au3+ ions with tryptophan is reported. Interestingly, intense white light emission associated with enhanced fluorescence of oxidized tryptophan adsorbed on the tips of the Au triangles was observed. These results are supported by lifetime measurements and fluorescence.Download high-res image (46KB)Download full-size image