Kinetic Control of [AuCl₄]⁻ Photochemical Reduction and Gold Nanoparticle Size with Hydroxyl Radical Scavengers

Laser-induced photochemical reduction of aqueous [AuCl4]− is a green synthesis approach requiring no chemical reducing agents or stabilizers; but size control over the resulting gold nanoparticles remains a challenge. Under optical breakdown conditions producing hydrated electrons (eaq–) and hydroxyl radicals (OH•) through decomposition of water, [AuCl4]− reduction kinetics follow an autocatalytic rate law, which is governed by rate constants:...