Multiple morphologies of gold nano-plates by high-temperature polyol syntheses

High-temperature polyol methods were used to fabricate micro- or nano-sized gold plates. 1,2-propanediol served as both medium and reducing agent. Triangular plates and polygonal plate shapes derived from triangular prisms as well as pentagonal structured gold particles have been synthesized. Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) plays an important role, but is not necessary, for the formation of these structures. These gold plates may have applications in the characterisation of adsorbed proteins or peptides.