Thursday, 16th October 2008 (839 views)

Researchers have been "seeing stars" at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in the US.

A recent study conducted at the facility highlighted the benefits of using gold 'nanostars' for chemical and biological imaging or sensory techniques.

The unique, star-shaped gold nanoparticles exhibit optical properties that make them superior to other devices, the scientists found.

Potentially, they could be used in a broad range of disciplines including diagnosing diseases and identifying contraband.

Led by physicist Angela Walker, the team used the gold nanostars in developing a new approach to the surface-enhanced raman spectroscopy technique.

They found that this process was markedly enhanced when the gold particles were included.

Ms Walker stated that other researchers should take note of the optical qualities of the gold particles, saying that they could become the "stars of the nanoworld".

This week academics from Northwestern University revealed that they had developed a fountain pen-like device that allowed them to "write" with a gold nanoparticle-infused solution similar to ink.

 

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