Rapid and Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Red Fluorescent Gold Nanoclusters for Sensing and Anti-Counterfeiting Applications

A rapid and eco-friendly synthesis method for the preparation of gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) with strong red emission has been developed. A one-pot microwave (MW) irradiation method yields bright red-emitting Au NCs, providing an easy route for the synthesis of fluorescent Au NCs without the need for a tedious operation, time-consuming procedure, or the use of toxic/corrosive agents and harsh conditions. The as-prepared Au NCs show a small-sized distribution, good dispersibility and a broad excitation band (from UV light to visible light). The optimal experimental conditions, including concentrations and order of addition of Na2CO3, bovine serum albumin (BSA), and HAuCl4 and the time of MW irradiation, were investigated in detail. The assynthesized Au NCs were well characterized by fluorescence spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Due to favorable photoluminescence features as well as minimal toxicity, the Au NCs could be applied to sensing, patterning and anti-counterfeiting. The Au NCs displayed strong red emission that was efficiently quenched by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). More strikingly, the obtained Au NCs were used as a fluorescent ink for producing luminescent handwriting and patterns, which may expand the potential applications of Au NCs in the fabrication of security inks.