Tunable-wavelength nanosecond laser tailoring of plasmon resonance spectra of gold nanoparticle colloids

Abstract

Metal nanoparticles have applications across a range of fields of science and industry. While there are numerous existing methods to facilitate their large-scale production, most face limitations, particularly in achieving reproducible processes and minimizing undesirable impurities. Common issues are varying particle sizes and aggregates with unfavorable spectral properties. Researchers are currently developing methods to separate or modify nanoparticle sizes and shapes post-synthesis and to eliminate impurities. One promising approach involves laser light irradiation and enables the changing of nanoparticle sizes and shapes while controlling crucial spectral parameters. In this work, we present a novel extension of this method by irradiating nanoparticle colloids with variable-wavelength nanosecond laser pulses on both sides of the extinction band. Our results demonstrate the use of gradual laser wavelength tuning to optimize the photothermal reshaping of gold nanorods and achieve precise control over the plasmon resonance band. By irradiating both sides of the plasmon resonance band, we execute a multistep tuning process, controlling the band's width and spectral position. A statistical analysis of SEM images reveals differences in the nanorod morphology when irradiated on the long- or short-wavelength side of the plasmon resonance band. The fine-tuning of plasmonic spectral properties is desirable for various applications, including the development of sensors and filters and the exploitation of the photothermal effect. The findings of this study can be extended to other plasmonic nanostructures.