Absorption and scattering of light in nanodiamond hydrosols

Scattering and absorption of optical radiation in hydrosols of detonation nanodiamonds (DND) have been studied. Experimental data are presented on the spectral response of the optical density of DND hydrosols prepared by different techniques and in different concentrations. The size distribution of DND particles in these hydrosols was investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The experimental data are compared with calculations. The calculations were performed on models including both the structure of a single DND particle made up of a diamond core and a thin graphite-like shell and the size distribution of the DND particles. A comparison of experiments with the calculation provided a possibility of refining the model of the DND particle and gaining insight into the nature of particle aggregation. It is demonstrated that the combined use of two methods of investigation, which deal with the spectral response of optical density and dynamic light scattering, offers valuable information on the nature of DND hydrosol coloring and the results of particle size determination.

Research Highlights► Detonation nanodiamond hydrosols with particle sizes 20-100 nm have been studied. ► Size distribution of particles were studied by dynamic light scattering. ► Experimental study and calculations of absorption and scattering of light were made. ► Results supported core shell model of the single 4 nm nanodiamond particle.