Colloidal Au nanoplates: Synthesis, properties, and applications

Due to the structural anisotropy and unique surface plasmon resonance, Au nanoplates as a class of two-dimensional nanostructures are of broad research interest to communities ranging from crystal growth and plasmonics to sensors, catalysis and therapeutics. In the past few years, studies on Au nanoplates have undergone a substantial development in different aspects. The growth methods have been largely simplified with the improved understanding of growth mechanisms. High-yield production has been achieved for a wide size span that ranges from nanometers to tens of micrometers. Currently, people are evolving to investigate their optical properties, biocompatibility, surface chemistry as well as the catalytic properties. Potential applications have thereby been extending to fields ranging from surface enhanced spectroscopies and sensors to therapeutics and catalysis. In this work, we review the recent advances in Au nanoplates, covering their syntheses and growth mechanisms, unique characteristics and a few specific applications. Perspectives on the futuristic research directions are finally outlined.