How Can the Stability of Gold Nanoparticles Be Enhanced?
Enhancing the stability of AuNPs involves several strategies:
1. Ligand Modification: Employing appropriate ligands that provide better steric hindrance or electrostatic repulsion can improve stability. Thiol-based ligands are commonly used due to their strong affinity for gold surfaces. 2. Core-Shell Structures: Encapsulating AuNPs within a protective shell (e.g., silica, polymer) can prevent oxidation and agglomeration, thus enhancing stability. 3. Alloying: Forming alloys with other metals like silver or platinum can enhance the thermal and chemical stability of AuNPs. 4. Support Engineering: Designing support materials with strong binding sites or creating porous structures can help anchor the nanoparticles, preventing their migration and aggregation.
