Unraveling the organotellurium chemistry applied to the synthesis of gold nanomaterials

Abstract

Long-term preservation of the properties of gold nanoparticles in both solution and the dry powder form can be difficult. We have overcome this challenge by using organotellurium derivatives as both reducing agents and stabilizers in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles. This new synthetic protocol takes advantage of the photochemical and oxidative properties of diphenyl ditelluride (Ph2Te2), which, so far, have never been exploited in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles. The Au/Te core/shell (inorganic/organic) hybrid nanomaterial can be obtained in a one-step reaction, using only Ph2Te2 and HAuCl4. By modifying the reaction conditions, different resonance conditions of the gold core are achieved due to the formation of external shells with different thicknesses. The organotellurium shell can be easily removed by resuspension of the nanoparticles in environmentally friendly solvents, such as water or ethanol, making the Au core available for subsequent applications. A mechanism for the formation of core/shell nanoparticles has also been discussed.