Sputtering synthesis and optical investigation of octadecanethiol-protected fluorescent Au nanoparticles

Abstract

Herein we report for the first time the synthesis of octadecanethiol-capped gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) by sputtering of Au over a liquid matrix (silicone oil). Au NPs prepared in silicone oil showed plasmon absorption; however, those prepared in the presence of 1-octadecanethiol did not show plasmon absorption but fluoresced in the near IR region.