Hybrid one-dimensional nanostructures: one-pot preparation of nanoparticle chains via directed self-assembly of in situ synthesized discrete Au nanoparticles

The fabrication of well-defined one-dimensional (1D) arrays is becoming a challenge for the development of the next generation of advanced nanodevices. Herein, a simple concept is proposed for the in situ synthesis and self-assembly of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) into 1D arrays via a one-step process. The results demonstrated the formation of nanoparticle chains (NPC) with high aspect ratio based on discrete Au nanoparticles stabilized by short thiol ligands. A model was proposed to explain the self-assembly based on the investigation of several parameters such as pH, solvent, temperature, and nature of the ligand on the 1D assembly formation. Hydrogen bonding was identified as a key factor to direct the self-assembly of the hybrid organic-inorganic nanomaterials into the well-defined 1D nanostructures. This simple and cost-effective concept could potentially be extended to the fabrication of a variety of hybrid 1D nanostructures possessing unique physical properties leading to a wide range of applications including catalysis, bionanotechnology, nanoelectronics, and photonics.