Practical exercise in nano-technology. Magnetite and gold nanoparticle synthesis and investigation

A power point with associated notes detailing the synthesis of magnetite and gold nanoparticles.
The size and optical properties of the gold nanoparticles are investigated and the synthesised magnetite samples are surface treated to make them either oil and water soluble.

This is a directed practical for teams of three with small group demonstrator led evaluation of the properties of the prepared nanoparticles. The slides are editable and should prove a suitable resource for introducing nanotechnology. Areas highlighted are surface area/ volume(mass) ratio, optical properties and the unusual magnetic properties of magnetite nanoparticles. I have included a couple of links to YouTube videos (Morpho butterfly physical colour and geckos sticky feet which help reinforce these points. This is an on-going project and will be updated as activities are developed.