Magnetic-plasmonic nanoparticles for the life sciences: Calculated optical properties of hybrid structures

Ward Brullot, Ventsislav K. Valev, Thierry Verbiest

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

60 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

Magnetic-plasmonic nanoparticles, combining magnetic and plasmonic components, are promising structures for use in life sciences. Optical properties of core-shell magnetite-gold nanostructures, such as the wavelength of the plasmon resonance, the extinction cross-section, and the ratio of scattering to absorption at the plasmon wavelength are critical parameters in the search for the most suitable particles for envisioned applications. Using Mie theory and the discrete dipole approximation (DDA), optical spectra as a function of composition, size, and shape of core-shell nanospheres and nanorods were calculated. Calculations were done using simulated aqueous media, used throughout the life sciences. Our results indicate that in the advantageous near-infrared region (NIR), although magnetic-plasmonic nanospheres produced by available chemical methods lack the desirable tunability of optical characteristics, magnetic-plasmonic nanorods can achieve the desired optical properties at chemically attainable dimensions. The presented results can aid in the selection of suitable magnetic-plasmonic structures for applications in life sciences. From the Clinical Editor: In this basic science study, magnetic-plasmonic nanoparticles are studied for future applications in life sciences. Optical properties of core-shell magnetite-gold nanostructures, such as the wavelength of the plasmon resonance, the extinction cross-section, and the ratio of scattering to absorption at the plasmon wavelength are critical parameters in the search for the most suitable particles for proposed future applications.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)559-568
Number of pages10
JournalNanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology, and Medicine
Volume8
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jul 2012

Keywords

  • Calculated optical properties
  • Core-shell nanoparticles
  • Magnetic-plasmonic nanoparticles
  • Magnetite-gold
  • Nanorods

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