Metallic nanostructures arrays by direct nanoimprinting of silver nanoparticles

Abstract

The direct nanoimprinting of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) generated a plasmonic metallic nanostructure. The Ag NPs used in this study have been synthesized by a phase transfer method. The procedure comprised the utilisation of sodium borohydride to reduce silver nitrate in the presence of a stabilizing agent, which facilitated the transfer of the NPs from the aqueous phase to an organic phase, resulting in uniform and stable particles. The size and shape of the Ag NPs were characterized using electron microscopy, revealing spherical particles with an average diameter of 9 nm. The XRD examination revealed that the nanoparticles exhibit a high degree of crystallinity and possess a cubic geometric phase. The UV-visible absorption spectra demonstrate a significant level of homogeneity in the size. The silicon surface imprinted with Ag NPs exhibits hydrophobic behaviour towards water molecules. This approach allows for precise control of Ag NPs on the substrate, resulting in a robust and effective platform for future applications in sensor technology. Furthermore, the hydrophobic nature of the imprinted surface suggests potential applications in water-repellent coatings or self-cleaning materials.