Abstract
From a single dispersion of surfactant-coated Au nanoparticles (NPs), we can assemble colorimetric films of different thickness, organic content, and structure. In this work, we demonstrate how these variables play a fundamental role in determining what sensing mechanism predominates when these films are subjected to liquid-phase ethanol (EtOH), acetone (Ace), and toluene (Tol) analytes. Theoretical calculations, performed with the Korringa–Kohn–Rostoker (KKR) model, agree very well with the experiments if we consider that thinner films with lesser organic/inorganic content (or no organic at all) offer more vacancies for the solvents to partition, leading to effective changes in the permittivity. Instead, thicker films with a more compacted structure suffer minimal changes in the effective permittivity (lesser vacancies), causing color changes dominated by changes in the distance between the Au NPs. These films may be incorporated into a sensor array for improving selectivity toward the detection of vapor/liquid-phase analytes.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
