Template synthesis of nanoparticle arrays of gold using highly ordered functional mesoporous silica thin films with high amino-groups content

Abstract: The periodic disposed gold nanoparticle arrays (GNPAs) are very useful for wide range applications. Employing the neutralization reaction between chloroauric acid and amino groups, GNPAs were self-assembled inside pore channels of amino-functionalized mesoporous silica thin films (AF-MSTFs) which were produced by using the surface active agent CTAB (cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide). The AF-MSTF samples were characterized by FTIR, XRD and TEM. The results show that the average diameter of quantum dots was controlled by the highly ordered pore channels. UV–vis absorption spectra of the GNPAs/AF-MSTF nanocomposites exhibit blue-shift and intensity decrease of absorption peaks as the neutralization reaction time decreases, representing the existence of GNPs and revealing an adjustable optical property. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]