Fast and cost-effective purification of gold nanoparticles in the 20-250 nm size range by continuous density gradient centrifugation

Small. 2011 Sep 5;7(17):2443-8. doi: 10.1002/smll.201100663. Epub 2011 Jun 28.

Abstract

A multilayer quasi-continuous density gradient centrifugation method for separating 20-250 nm metal colloids with high size resolution while maintaining particle stability is presented. Colloidal mixtures containing monodisperse gold nanospheres and clusters thereof, in particular, gold dimers, are purified with yields up to 94%. The rapid method uses standard laboratory equipment.

Keywords: Raman spectroscopy; density gradient centrifugation; gold; nanoparticles; purification.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Centrifugation, Density Gradient / economics
  • Centrifugation, Density Gradient / methods*
  • Colloids / chemistry
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Gold*
  • Metal Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Metal Nanoparticles / ultrastructure*
  • Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
  • Particle Size
  • Silicon Dioxide
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Colloids
  • Gold
  • Silicon Dioxide