Surface properties of plasma-functionalized graphite-encapsulated gold nanoparticles prepared by a direct current arc discharge method

The graphite-encapsulated gold nanoparticles (Au@C NPs) fabricated by a direct current arc discharge method were surface-functionalized by an inductively-coupled radio frequency ammonia plasma with a particle explosion technique for enhancing surface modification efficiency. To investigate the structural and surface properties of Au@C NPs, characterizations using x-ray diffraction, high resolution transmission electron microscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy have been conducted on the untreated and plasma treated Au@C NPs. Based on the experimental results, we give insight into the possible formation of Au ions in the interface between the graphite layers and gold core particles of the Au@C NPs. Finally, the role of the plasma treatment on the surface functionalization of Au@C NPs with amino groups is discussed.