Gold Cobalt Core Shell Nanoparticles (Au/Co, 99.9%, APS: 80-100nm, Metal Core/Metal Shell)

Gold Cobalt Core-Shell Nanoparticles

Introduction

Gold-Cobalt (Au-Co) core-shell nanoparticles are a type of nanomaterial that combine the unique properties of gold (Au) and cobalt (Co) in a core-shell structure. The core consists of a nanoparticle of gold, while the shell is made up of cobalt (or cobalt-based compounds such as cobalt oxide). These nanoparticles leverage the distinct properties of gold and cobalt to create materials with enhanced functionalities, making them highly versatile for a wide range of applications in nanomedicine, energy storage, magnetic materials, catalysis, and electronics.

Properties

Plasmonic Properties (Gold Core):

The gold core imparts plasmonic properties, particularly the ability to absorb and scatter light at specific wavelengths. This results in localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), which can enhance optical signals in applications like biosensing, imaging, and optical spectroscopy.

The plasmonic properties of the gold core can also be tuned based on the size, shape, and composition of the gold nanoparticle, allowing for precise control over the nanoparticles’ optical response.

Magnetic Properties (Cobalt Shell):

The cobalt shell imparts ferromagnetic properties to the nanoparticles, allowing them to respond to external magnetic fields. This makes the Au-Co nanoparticles useful in applications requiring magnetic targeting or magnetic manipulation, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or drug delivery.

The magnetic properties of the cobalt shell are also important for applications in data storage and magnetic separation, where precise control over the material’s magnetic behavior is required.

Catalytic Activity (Cobalt Shell):

Cobalt is a highly active metal for catalysis, especially in reactions such as hydrogenation, oxygen reduction, and CO oxidation. The cobalt shell enhances the electrocatalytic properties of the nanoparticles, making them suitable for applications in fuel cells, batteries, and energy conversion.

The cobalt-based shell can also exhibit high chemical stability and electronic conductivity, which further enhances its catalytic performance.

Enhanced Stability:

The gold core helps to stabilize the nanoparticles by preventing oxidation or degradation, particularly when exposed to harsh conditions, such as biological environments or high temperatures. The cobalt shell adds extra robustness and can be engineered to enhance surface protection and durability.