Effects of Photochromic Furan-Based Diarylethenes on Gold Nanoparticles Aggregation

Abstract

Abstract The photochromic properties of furan-based diarylethenes and their interaction with citrate-capped gold nanoparticles were investigated by ultraviolet/visible absorption spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. We identified the optimal concentration of diarylethenes in water-ethanol mixture required for stability of colloidal systems. Nanoparticles coupled with diarylethene derivatives exhibit a new surface plasmon resonance band coming from their aggregation. We analyzed the effects of functional side-chain groups on aggregation process. These results can be considered as a basis for further designing of novel hybrid nanomaterials and optoelectronic elements.

Keywords

• Photochromic Molecule
• Diarylethenes/Difurylethenes
• Gold Nanoparticles
• Surface Plasmon Resonance
• UV/VIS Absorption Spectroscopy
• Transmission Electron Microscopy