Synthesis and structural characterization of gold nanorods

Gold cylinders with nanometric dimensions were successfully synthesized and characterized by X-ray scattering and diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. A small change on the synthesis route led to a slower reaction, allowing better control over the dimensions of the nanorods. The structural characterization enabled the description of the parameters as a function of synthesis time as well as reliable quantification of molar concentrations. The fine-tuning of sizes is crucial for the optimization of the nanorods on specialized applications.