Enhanced luminescence of Ag nanoclusters via surface modification

Chin, P.T.K.; Linden, M. van der; Harten, E.J. van; Barendregt, A.; Rood, M.T.M.; Koster, A.J.; ... ; Meijerink, A. (2013)

Article / Letter to editor

In this work we present a detailed study on the influence of surface modifications for luminescent silver (Ag) clusters. Ag clusters (25 atoms) capped with dihydrolipoic acid show a distinct absorbance spectrum with several sharp transitions, and relative broad deep red luminescence with a quantum yield of 5% combined with a remarkably long luminescence lifetime of ∼3 μs at room temperature. Both pH and the presence of coordinating ligands influence the absorbance spectra and fluorescence intensity. A strong increase in luminescence intensity up to 45% quantum yield could be induced by coordination with PEG ligands. Conclusion: the surface coordination of the Ag clusters strongly influences the optical properties.

• All authors: Chin, P.T.K.; Linden, M. van der; Harten, E.J. van; Barendregt, A.; Rood, M.T.M.; Koster, A.J.; Leeuwen, F.W.B. van; Donega, C.D.; Heck, A.J.R.; Meijerink, A.
• Date: 2013-01-28
• Journal: Nanotechnology
• Volume: 24
• Issue: 7
• Pages: 075703
• DOI: doi:10.1088/0957-4484/24/7/075703