GOLD NANOPARTICLES

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Context

• Gold nanoparticles, often referred to as 'gold bhasma,' have gained recognition for their therapeutic and beautifying properties in skincare.
• These nanoparticles not only protect the skin from external infestations but also combat aging, improve metabolism, and rejuvenate the body.

Details

• Gold nanoparticles are easily absorbed by the skin and act as a rejuvenator, potentially benefiting various systems of the human body.
• They are integral to various Ayurvedic preparations, known for their rejuvenating, immuno-modulating, beautifying, and healing properties.
• Gold nanoparticles are known to slow down collagen depletion, stimulate cell regeneration, improve metabolism, and tone up muscles.
• They strengthen underlying tissue, bones, and nerves, contributing to a youthful appearance.
• Innovative formulations, such as sparkling gold face washes enriched with gold nanoparticles and other natural ingredients, offer potent skincare solutions.

Introduction to Gold Nanoparticles

• Definition and Characteristics: Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are nanoscale particles composed of gold atoms, typically ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers in size. They possess unique optical, electronic, and catalytic properties due to their size and shape.
• Properties: Their properties include unique optical, electronic, and catalytic characteristics arising from their nanoscale dimensions and morphology.
• Synthesis Methods: Various techniques such as chemical reduction, physical vapor deposition, and biological synthesis are employed to fabricate gold nanoparticles.

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Size and Shape Dependence: Optical and electronic properties vary with size and shape, impacting their applications in various fields.
• Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR): Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) is a phenomenon where the collective oscillation of free electrons in gold nanoparticles results in strong absorption and scattering of light, making them useful in various optical applications.
• Surface Functionalization: Modification of surface chemistry enables specific applications such as targeted drug delivery, biosensing, and imaging.

Applications of Gold Nanoparticles

• Biomedical Applications: Gold nanoparticles find applications in imaging, therapy, and diagnostics. They serve as contrast agents in X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and photoacoustic imaging, and also facilitate photothermal therapy and drug delivery.
• Catalysis: Due to their high surface area and unique electronic properties, gold nanoparticles exhibit remarkable catalytic activity in various chemical transformations.
• Electronics: In electronics, gold nanoparticles are used in nanoelectronic devices, conductive inks, and sensors.
• Environmental Remediation: Gold nanoparticles are employed in detecting and removing pollutants from water and soil.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Gold nanoparticles offer a versatile platform with diverse applications in biomedicine, catalysis, electronics, and environmental science. Discuss. 150 Words.