Description
Gold nanorods
Gold nanorods feature plasmon resonance in both the visible and infrared spectrums and are a significant breakthrough in nanotechnology. Their enhanced absorption capacity means a host of innovative applications are possible. With a standard size of 15 x 70 nm, these nanorods are elongated in shape, resulting in anisotropic optical properties. This only adds to their potential.
These gold crystalline structures are attracting a great deal of interest in a number of fields, ranging from pure research to practical applications. For instance, in spectroscopy, gold nanorods enable precise, highly sensitive analyses, revealing key information about the structure and dynamics of molecules at the nanometric scale (surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, or SERS). Their ability to boost optical signal intensity makes it easier to detect minute quantities of a substance. This creates a host of new possibilities in biomolecular detection and biomonitoring.
Gold nanoparticles in healthcare
Gold nanoparticles are being studied with great interest in the healthcare industry. This is because they can be functionalised with agents that specifically target certain cells or biomolecules. For this reason, these nanoparticles are prime candidates for advanced medical applications. They are not only employed in drug delivery, but also in various therapeutic procedures. In photothermal therapy, for example, their ability to efficiently convert light into heat is used to selectively destroy certain cells. The possibilities are endless and highly promising.
Furthermore, gold nanorods play a vital role in the development of emerging technologies such as integrated photonics. Here, their ability to guide and manipulate light at the nanometric scale promises exciting opportunities for miniaturised optical devices.
In short, gold nanoparticles represent the intersection between various scientific disciplines: physics, chemistry, and biology. They hold groundbreaking potential in a range of applications, from early detection of disease to the development of next-generation photonic devices.
