New publication showcases the two-dimensional characterization of gold nanorods by size exclusion chromatography
In this study, we introduce an innovative application of the optical back coupling (OBC) technique to size exclusion chromatography (SEC) for characterizing gold nanorods (AuNRs). Traditionally, OBC has been employed with analytical ultracentrifugation to analyze sedimentation coefficient-resolved extinction spectra. By integrating OBC with SEC, the researchers leverage the distinct plasmonic extinction properties of AuNRs alongside their hydrodynamic behavior to simultaneously determine comprehensive size and shape distributions—including length, diameter, aspect ratio, volume, and surface area—in a single experiment. This method requires minimal sample volume and utilizes standard laboratory equipment, making it both accessible and efficient. The team validated their results through complementary scanning transmission electron microscopy, confirming the accuracy of their measurements. This approach offers a streamlined and effective platform for the multidimensional characterization of plasmonic nanoparticles.