Bi2O3 Nanoparticle Clusters: Reversible Agglomeration Revealed by Imaging and Nano‐Impact Experiments

Colloidal suspensions of Bi₂O₃ nanoparticles were studied in aqueous solution using imaging and electrochemical techniques. Nanoparticle tracking analysis revealed the particles to be agglomerated. In contrast, electrochemical detection via the nano‐impacts technique showed almost exclusive detection of monomeric nanoparticles. Comparison of the two techniques allows the conclusion to be drawn that the agglomeration/deagglomeration of the nanoparticles is reversible. A minimum rate constant for the deagglomeration process was estimated.     

Nanorod Aspect Ratios Determined by the Nano‐Impact Technique

The in situ electrochemical sizing of individual gold nanorods is reported. Through the combination of electrochemical dissolution and the use of a surface‐bound redox tag, the volume and surface area of the nanorods are measured, and provide the aspect ratio and the size of the nanorods. Excellent independent agreement is found with electron microscopy analysis of the nanorods, establishing the application of nano‐impact experiments for the sizing of anisotropic nanomaterials.     

From Nanoparticle Ensembles to Single Nanoparticles: Techniques for the Investigation of Plasmon Enhanced Electrochemistry

Plasmon enhanced electrochemistry (PEEC), where specific electrochemical reactions are promoted due to the reduced energy barrier of the reaction processes by the light excited “hot carriers” of the plasmonic nanoparticles, has aroused tremendous interest in recent years. A deep understanding of the PEEC process becomes a key issue for facilitating PEEC catalyst design and improving PEEC performance. This concept article begins with a brief discussion of the macroscopic electrochemical method of PEEC study of the plasmonic nanoparticle ensembles. Following that, we highlight two electrochemical techniques that may possess single nanoparticle sensitivity, i. e., scanning electrochemical microscope and nano-impact electrochemistry. The pros and cons of each technique are discussed and an outlook is given. We hope to provide the readers with the current status of PEEC to evoke reflections regarding the reaction mechanisms, performance improvement, and the utilizations to important systems.