Nanoparticles are increasingly being employed in a variety of industrial and environmental applications. In this study, we aimed to develop a sustainable method for synthesizing silver nanoparticles and to evaluate their potential as algal growth inhibitors. A seedless protocol was established using ascorbic acid and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to obtain spherical silver nanoparticles, thereby avoiding the use of strong reducing agents. The nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and IR spectroscopy. Since microalgae and other marine organisms often grow on the surfaces of boats, ships, and other human-made devices in aquatic environments, antifouling products are necessary to prevent unwanted fouling. The algal growth inhibition capacity of the synthesized silver nanoparticles was assessed using two marine diatoms Cylindrotheca Closterium and Skeletonema marinoi. The results revealed a marked inhibitory effect on algal proliferation in treated samples compared to controls. Overall, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed synthetic method and paves the way for the use of these silver nanoparticles as a tool for controlling microalgal growth.
Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) operations increasingly adopt mechanized comminution, assuming it universally improves gold recovery. This case study challenges that generalized approach through a comparative field performance evaluation of two gravity recovery circuits processing saprolite ore in Suriname: a traditional direct sluicing system (IST) and a mechanized hammer mill-centrifuge system (HS). Operational parameters and fractional gold deportment were evaluated using a reconstituted head grade methodology to mitigate the fundamental sampling error inherent to high-nugget deposits. Feed characterization revealed that approximately 80
Gold-based materials are widely used in electronics, catalysis, and biomedicine due to their excellent conductivity, chemical stability, and biocompatibility; however, their low strength and poor wear resistance limit structural applications. Microalloying, defined as the addition of trace elements (< 0.5 wt
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) exhibit exceptional physicochemical properties, notably localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), enabling diverse applications in biomedicine, molecular imaging (CT/PAI/MRI), photothermal therapy (PTT), and targeted drug delivery. This review systematically examines synthesis strategies, emphasizing pulsed laser ablation in liquid (PLAL) as a surfactant-free, eco-friendly “top-down” method producing pristine 5–50 nm AuNPs via plasma plume confinement and cavitation-induced nucleation. Complementary “bottom-up” green biosynthesis leverages plant/fruit extracts (polyphenols/flavonoids), microorganisms, and fungi (nitrate reductase) to yield biofunctionalized AuNPs (10–80 nm) with inherent stability for theranostics. Comparative analyses highlight PLAL’s superiority in purity/yield compared to chemical methods, while biological methods excel in scalability and multifunctionality. Shape-dependent plasmonic heating: nanorods achieve ΔT = 45–55 °C vs. spheres (25 °C), underpinning PTT efficacy. The review elucidates targeting strategies (passive EPR vs. active ligand-receptor), hybrid imaging, and challenges, including EPR heterogeneity, synthesis reproducibility, and clinical translation. Future directions prioritize fs-PLAL optimization, biohybrid architectures, and multimodal AuNP platforms for precision oncology.
To address the challenge of in-situ monitoring of melt pool dynamics in laser additive manufacturing (LAM), this work proposes a gas-jet excitation method to probe surface wave behavior in liquid metals. Using an In51Bi32.5Sn16.5 alloy (melting point ≈ 60 °C), controlled airflow was applied across temperatures from 90 °C to 60 °C, and surface ripple evolution was captured via high-speed imaging. Image analysis revealed that both wave velocity and wavelength decrease markedly with cooling: stable concentric ripples form at 70 °C, while coherent waves vanish at 60 °C due to incipient solidification. Numerical simulations qualitatively reproduced the ring-like waves and keyhole-like depressions, showing trend-level consistency with the experimental observations. The findings suggest that gas-jet-excited surface-wave characteristics may provide potential observable signals for characterizing the near-solidification state of liquid metal and may offer a conceptual basis for future melt-pool monitoring methods.
The electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties of flouro double perovskites (FDPs) Rb2AuMF6 (M = Co and Rh) have been investigated using density functional theory and semiclassical Boltzmann transport theory. Enthalpy of formation energy (Ef), cohesive energy, and Goldschmidt tolerance factor (tf) are calculated to assure the stability of the structure. These materials exhibit band gaps between 1.454 eV and 1.828 eV, placing them within the visible light range and indicating their potential suitability for solar energy harvesting. Dielectric tensor, energy loss absorption, optical conductivity, refraction, and reflection are examples of optical properties that have been researched to look at how incident light interacts with the FDPs under investigation. The calculated bulk moduli are 66.72 GPa (Rb₂AuCoF₆) and 65.38 GPa (Rb₂AuRhF₆), reflecting their mechanical robustness. Optical analyses reveal low reflectivity (0.05–0.08), strong absorption, and high optical conductivity in the visible–UV spectrum, suggesting potential for optoelectronic applications. Additionally, these compounds’ thermoelectric behaviour has been examined to determine viability for thermoelectric applications. Thermoelectric performance is promising, with Seebeck coefficients of 181 µV/K and ZT values of 0.177 (Rb₂AuCoF₆) and 0.138 (Rb₂AuRhF₆), while electrical conductivity (σ/τ) and power factors are also favorable. The assessed values of ZT predict that Rb2AuCoF6 is comparatively a promising material for TE applications.
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are widely utilized in colorimetric sensing, leveraging their optical characteristics to identify variables through noticeable color alterations. Polymer (PVP)-functionalized gold nanoparticles were successfully prepared in a single step by the induced plasma-under-liquid process. We will evaluate plasma-liquid method synthesis by GREEnness calculator. The effects of different concentrations of PVP on the synthesis and characteristics of the AuNPs, such as size distributions, hydrodynamic diameters, polydispersity indices (PDI), absorbance intensity, and LSPR, were characterized and investigated. The as-synthesized PVP-AuNPs were characterized by SEM, DLS, and UV–visible spectroscopy. Spherical AuNPs were generated, displaying a maximal absorption peak at around 530–560 nm and a size range of 30–50 nm, which can be adjustable depending on the initial concentration precursor and capping agent used in the synthesis process. Polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated gold nanoparticles (PVP-AuNPs) were employed as a colorimetric probe for the quick, easy, sensitive, and selective measurement of chromium ion (Cr(VI)) contamination in water. In fact, chromium ion (Cr(VI)) caused the colloidal solution’s hue to change from red to blue by forcing PVP-AuNPs to aggregate with PVP on the surface of AuNPs. It was established that size and polydispersity affect the colorimetric properties of functionalized nanoparticles during colorimetric detection of the analyte. Optimizing the experimental parameters (volume/concentration AuNPs, the dependence of limit of quantification (LOQ), limit of detection (LOD) at temperature) revealed a good linear connection between the concentration of chromium ion (Cr(VI)) and the absorption ratio (A690/A530-560) in the range of 0.1–3.0 µM with a detection Limit of 0.072–0.1 µM. The selectivity of the developed colorimetric nanoprobe was evaluated by testing its response to various common heavy metal ions. The analytical GREEnness calculator, a comprehensive assessment approach to this method, uses 12 principles of green analytical chemistry which transformed into a unified 0–1 scale. Potential use of methods in quality control laboratories is valuable for the pharmaceutical sector.
Bacterial infections constitute one of the major health issues for the next decades, and their detection through affordable methods is currently an urgency. Cell surface glycans constitute interesting biomarkers, since they are specific, abundant, and diverse. However, their identification has been commonly based on sophisticated, high-cost techniques, such as mass spectrometry or immunolabeling. We herein propose a surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) approach based on optically active gold nanoparticles targeted to D-mannoside and D-glucoside, two common terminal sugars of bacterial glycans. To do so, nanoparticles were decorated with Concanavalin A through a simple physisorption step before using them to generate Raman signals. The use of the construct with beta-methyl-D-mannoside, a well-known Concanavalin A ligand, was found to generate SERS signals of dose-dependent intensities. Moreover, the application of the functional system with three different bacterial species induced differential SERS profiles that included Raman bands specific to cell surface glycolipids. Transmission electron microscopy analyses of bacterial-nanogold preparations revealed that both cell surface and secreted glycans can be tagged by using the gold-lectin construct. Further research is therefore encouraged to better assess this functional nanotag in microbial detection.
Utilizing the full potential linearized augmented plane wave and local orbitals (FP-LAPW + lo), the structure, electronics, optical, elastic as well as transport characteristics of A2LaAuCl6 (A = K, Rb or Cs) were computed by using density functional theory (DFT). The electronic band structure of the Halide double perovskites (HDPs) A2LaAuCl6 (A = K, Rb, or Cs) suggested the presence of indirect and wide band gaps in these compounds. The energy band gaps of such material decreased by replacing the cations from K to Rb to Cs (3.046 eV, 3.019 eV, and 2.912 eV). Strong p-d hybridization is observed in the compounds. Due to its wide bandgap nature, the compounds reveal prominent optical structures in the UV energy range. A2LaAuCl6 (A = K/Rb/Cs) compounds have an elastically anisotropic nature, as indicated by their estimated shear anisotropy values of 0.26, 0.61, and 0.31, correspondingly. The compounds appear to be inherently ductile based on their estimated Poisson ratios of 0.37, 0.32, and 0.37. P-type conduction is shown by the Seebeck coefficient values for A2LaAuCl6 (A = K/Rb/Cs), the estimated Seebeck coefficient at 800 K, which are 148 µV/K, 152 µV/K, and 141 µV/K, correspondingly. ZT values for such A2LaAuCl6 (A = K/Rb/Cs) compounds are (0.53, 0.54, and 0.47) at the 800 K temperature. The results of the computations serve as the basis for providing new data on A2LaAuCl6 (A = K/Rb/Cs) and have practical relevance for high-frequency devices.
Conventional cancer therapies face high costs and adverse effects, driving interest in natural compounds like quercetin for their therapeutic potential. However, quercetin’s poor solubility limits its effectiveness, necessitating innovative delivery methods. This study introduces a one-pot synthesis technique for quercetin-functionalized silver (Q-AgNPs) and quercetin-functionalised gold nanoparticles (Q-AuNPs), using quercetin (Q) exhibits bifunctional capabilities, operating as a potent electron donor and an effective stabilizing agent. Characterization using UV–visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), FTIR spectroscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and high-resolution TEM (FEG-TEM) confirms the successful creation of highly crystalline, uniform Au and Ag nanoparticles averaging 28 nm and 32 nm in diameter. Quercetin-functionalized nanoparticles show superior antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties compared to quercetin. Quercetin silver nanoparticles demonstrate significant activity against human cervical (SiHa) and colon (HT-29) cancer cell lines and effective antimicrobial activity. At low concentrations (80 µg/mL), these nanoparticles achieve a 50
Our investigation explores the complex interplay between electromagnetic field and heat transfer during the fusion process of pure gold within an induction crucible furnace through a 2D-axisymmetric model. By constructing this model, we analyze the critical warm-up phase-a period marked by substantial power requirements and extended duration. This research seeks to illuminate how various geometrical and physical parameters influence the distribution of physical fields throughout the transient heating interval. Of particular interest is the path to achieving optimal melting conditions, given the intricate coupling between electromagnetic and thermal phenomena, both of which exhibit significant nonlinear characteristics. To address these challenges, we developed a computational framework based on finite volume discretization to numerically solve the governing equations of electromagnetic and heat conduction.
Synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in the presence of three different liquid mediums was carried out using ns-pulsed laser ablation in liquid: DDDW, NaOH, and DMEM. X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopic investigations (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and UV–visible spectroscopy were some of the techniques that were utilized in order to describe the structural, chemical, morphological, topological, and optical features of as-produced nanomaterials. The characterization studies provided evidence that the successful synthesis route was appropriate. It has been demonstrated via the utilization of cytotoxicity tests that gold nanoparticles have the capacity to not only eradicate cancer cells but also stop their reproduction. This ability was demonstrated by gold nanoparticles. The Au nanoparticles showed an extraordinarily deadly efficacy against cancer cells as compared to cancer cells that had not been treated with the chemical. This was accomplished by preventing the growth and reproduction of cancer cells.
The Indian gold jewellery industry boasts a rich identity of the nation’s cultural, traditional, and economic heritage. Currently, the industry is facing several challenges like the high gold prices and limited arability of design flexibility manufactured using the traditional jewellery manufacturing process. In this paper, several gold jewellery manufacturing processes have been discussed such a traditional manufacturing process and lost wax casting process highlighting their limitations in terms of material waste and design constraints. The paper compares this process and proposes an idea to implement binder jet 3D printing as a disruptive innovation to revolutionize the industry. The concept of binder jet 3D printing technology was introduced explaining its core principles and emphasizing its advantages for jewellery production. The study also examines customer preferences and contemporary design trends in the context of the Indian gold jewellery sector, which would be helpful to determine that there are potential uses for binder jet 3D printing to meet the needs of current design and mass customization trends. In this paper, a model for combining traditional Indian goldsmithing methods with binder jet 3D printing is proposed. This article provided an initial plan to introduce this process in the Indian market and prepare the path for a “Digital Goldsmith” era in the Indian jewellery sector by opening doors for future research in domains, like developing eco-friendly binders and optimizing printing settings for Indian gold alloys. It imagines a world in which this thriving industry will flourish due to sustainability, innovation, and the blending of old-world artisanry with innovative technology.
Gold nanoparticle-based colorimetric detection of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) holds significant promise as a potential gold standard assay for early diagnosis and prognosis. Despite notable advancements in this field, a critical limitation persists in stabilizing gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) for extended periods, hindering their application in point-of-care devices. While polymeric capping has been frequently employed to enhance Au NP stability, its impact on the performance of colorimetric detection assays remains underexplored. In this study, we have analyzed the effect of polymeric stabilizing agents, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the colorimetric detection of HCV. Additionally, we have evaluated the feasibility of using commercially available Au NPs for the assay. The findings revealed that PVA and PEG significantly improve molecular stability and shelf life of Au NPs. However, the interaction between synthetic oligomers and Au NP surfaces, influenced by the polymeric chelators, altered the biochemical properties, leading to variations in the assay’s ability to distinguish between positive and negative HCV samples. This preliminary investigation highlights the dual impact of polymeric chelators in enhancing Au NP stability and influencing assay performance. Future optimization is required to fully leverage their potential in meeting the standards for reliable colorimetric detection.
Identifying ternary gold alloys by their mere colors appears to be problematic. Surface state induces multiple reflections and creates mixtures of structural colors. Two models stochastic backward raytracing (SBR) and finite asymmetrical dihedral facets (FADF) are explored to compute the color of a given surface state. Assaying gold by its color without a touchstone seems hopeless but using colorimetric microscopy and variable magnification could be a way forward.
Peptide modification enhances the physicochemical properties of peptides by introducing specific chemical groups or structural adjustments, but achieving site-selective modification remains a significant challenge. Recently, the selective functionalization of peptides, particularly through metal catalysis, has attracted growing attention. Gold catalysts, in particular, have emerged as a powerful tool due to their high catalytic efficiency, exceptional stability, and biocompatibility. Gold-catalyzed peptide modifications can improve target specificity, modulate protein–protein interactions, and enable precise control over functional group incorporation. This review focuses on the latest advancements in gold-catalyzed site-selective functionalization of peptides, by providing a detailed overview of these developments, we aim to increase understanding in the field and encourage further exploration of gold-mediated peptide modifications.
Cancer is a significant global health issue that requires innovative methods for diagnosis and treatment. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are becoming more popular due to their unique physical and chemical properties, having ability to interact with biological systems without causing harm, and their ease of modification. This paper examines the potential of AuNPs to transform cancer theranostic via the integration of diagnostics and treatment. We explore the use of AuNPs in cancer imaging, specifically examining their ability to enhance contrast in several imaging techniques, enabling the early and accurate detection of tumors. In addition, we discuss the use of AuNP-mediated photothermal therapy (PTT), where AuNPs convert light into heat to selectively destroy cancer cells. In addition, we are exploring the capacity of AuNPs to serve as carriers for drug delivery, enabling the specific delivery of chemotherapeutic agents to tumor sites while reducing the overall negative effects on the body. One of the key advantages of AuNPs emphasized in this review is their ability to integrate therapeutic and imaging characteristics. We analyze the current challenges and propose strategies to improve the delivery and design of AuNPs for more effective cancer theranostic. AuNPs show great potential for personalized and effective cancer treatment since they may connect diagnosis and therapy.
Despite numerous reports on the successful preparation of organo-dispersible gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), complicated multi-step synthetic procedures and poor colloidal stability are still the main drawbacks. Poly (N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) is a polymer which is potent for reducing Au3+ to Au(0) with diverse dispersibility in organic solvents. With respect to these advantages, PDMAEMA was employed as both a reducing and stabilizing agent for the direct synthesis of AuNPs in water and some protic and aprotic organic solvents in this study. Notably, there was no need for any extra reducing agent or phase transfer material here. The kinetic of AuNPs formation and the effect of medium type on the size, shape, and dispersibility of AuNPs were studied by using TEM and UV–Vis results. Comprehensive analyses revealed that binding of PDMAEMA onto the gold precursor, established interactions, and conformation of PDMAEMA chains with consequent coverage of AuNPs surface are influential on the nucleation and growth rates, size, shape, dispersibility, and assembly of nanoparticles. This in-situ method will develop the exploitation of organo-dispersible metal nanoparticles, especially in the field of catalysts and sensors.
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a critical condition characterized by a rapid deterioration in kidney function, frequently resulting in severe complications and elevated mortality rates. Recent advancements in nanomedicine have introduced porphyrin-loaded gold (Au) functionalized polymeric nanodots (P-APNDs) as a promising therapeutic approach for AKI. The formation of P-APNDs was confirmed by analyzing physiochemical parameters such as FTIR, XRD, and TEM which revealed their spherical shape with a smaller size of 10 nm. The P-APND exhibits significant efficacy in alleviating AKI due to its preferential renal accumulation and potent antioxidant capacity. P-APND exhibited exceptional antioxidant properties in effectively scavenging various toxic free radicals, thereby providing efficient cellular protection against oxidative stresses in vitro at HEK 293 cell lines and found that P-APND was effective in treating cisplatin (Cs) induced cell lines. The in vivo analysis was carried out in a Cs-induced mice model. The accumulation of the drug in the kidney for a prolonged time shows the efficiency of the P-APND. The decreased serum creatinine levels and blood urea nitrogen confirm the improvement of kidney injury after the treatment with P-APND. Combining this therapy with comprehensive nursing care could mark a significant advancement in AKI management.
