4. Methods for synthesizing gold nanoparticles

Gold NPs have become a benchmark in inorganic synthesis, and the breadth of their applications has also encouraged the development of a wide range of syntheses adapted to each situation. Gold NPs have become nano-platforms for developing new applications or new concepts: a nanoplatform is defined as a nanometer-sized substrate onto which a specific chemical or biochemical function can be grafted without altering the substrate (through oxidation, dissolution, degradation, or aggregation). Here again, the exceptional stability properties of gold are essential.

Often, a synthesis of gold NPs meets a specific need. Are we looking to graft a protein and use the nanoparticle as a platform? Are we looking for a specific plasmon resonance? Are we looking for a radiosensitizing effect? Or do we want to use NPs as thermal nanosources?

It is impossible...