Catalytic Au Wool-Ball-Shaped Nanostructures

Gold nanoparticles shaped like wool balls were synthesized through the simple, spontaneous crystallization/reduction of gold thiocyanate [Au(SCN)₄ ⁻] in water, without co-addition of nucleating seeds, templating compounds, or reducing agents. The Au nanowool balls were highly uniform in size and displayed a remarkable nanoribbon surface morphology. Size and structural modulation of the particles were accomplished through the tuning of the concentration of the gold complex, as well as upon adding small quantities of organic solvents. The unique corrugated morphology and high surface area of the Au nanowool balls enabled their use as effective catalytic substrates for methanol oxidation and nitrophenol reduction.