Self-assembled metal colloid monolayers

Abstract

What follows is a description of an invention for the preparation of macroscopic metal surfaces by self assembly of colloidal metal particles. Metal surfaces play a critical role in technology, and in many cases, the surface morphology dictates function. The strategy delineated herein, the use of nanometer scale colloidal particles to form two-dimensional arrays, allows control of surface morphology to a degree previously unattainable and perhaps even unimaginable. Specific applications for metallic surfaces with controlled nanostructure include: (i) surface enhanced Raman scattering and all surface spectroscopies based on roughened metal surfaces, including second harmonic generation, surface enhanced hyperRaman scattering, surface plasmon resonance, and surface plasmonpolariton resonance; (ii) biocompatible surfaces, including those that comprise the working elements of electrochemical biosensors, substrates for matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) and biocompatible materials such as implants; (iii) catalysis; (iv) non-linear optical devices, including those based on second or third harmonic generation, the optical Kerr effect, etc.; and (v) electrochemical applications, including those requiring very high surface area/geometric area ratios, arrays of closely or variably spaced microelectrode arrays, and surfaces with exceptional biocompatibility and facile electron transfer properties.