Comparison between electrical and optical properties of Carbon dots, silver nanoparticles and hybrid carbon/silver nanoparticles: Experimental evidence of the interaction of Carbon dots on silver nanoparticles

Abstract

The comparison between electrical and optical properties of AgNPs, Cdots and Ag@Cdots were investigated. The synthesis of the nanoparticles was carried out via the microwave method as a quite simple and environmentally friendly method. The current–voltage curve characteristics of these nanoparticles were measured by using ITO (indium tin oxide) as a holder support material. These measurements were performed by two different electrical methods and the HOMO–LUMOband gap energy values (Eg) were obtained. The Eg values obtained for each nanomaterial were correlated with the optical properties, such as Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR). Electrical resistance values were obtained from the electrical studies in the ITO/sample contacted electrically by two points configurations. The comparisons of the Ag@Cdots electrical resistance, Eg and nanoparticle size values provide important information about the interaction between their components. Electrical resistance data in conjunction with the electrical circuit theory, provide relevant information about the surface coverage of AgNPs with Cdots on Ag@Cdots. The simplicity of the methodology used suggest useful for further studies related to the topic of nanomaterials.