Preserving the shape of silver nanocrystals

Abstract

Silver nanocrystals with well-controlled shapes have received broad interest owing to their remarkable properties for a variety of applications in areas such as plasmonics, catalysis, and electronics. How to preserve the shape of Ag nanocrystals has become a key issue in realizing the full potential of these applications. Here we provide an account of recent progress in addressing the shape stability of Ag nanocrystals used as colloidal samples. We begin with a brief introduction to the various shape-dependent properties of Ag nanocrystals, followed by a discussion of the general strategies and representative examples that can enhance the shape stability of Ag nanocrystals without compromising their unique properties. Finally, we conclude our discussion with perspective on the challenges in preserving the properties intrinsic to Ag nanocrystals with well-controlled shapes, as well as the possibility to have the strategies extended to other metals.