In Planta Gold Nanoparticle Shape Control via pH and Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for in planta synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) primarily produce spherical particles and lack the ability to modulate shapes and sizes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method involving hydroponic growth of plants, contacting them with a gold salt solution, and controlling photosynthetic active radiation and pH to produce AuNPs of varying sizes and shapes, such as spherical, triangular, and hexagonal, within the plant system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If conventional in planta synthesis methods are used, then gold nanoparticles are produced, but the particles are limited to spherical shapes and size modulation is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying growth conditions including pH levels, temperature, photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) intensity, and treatment duration to control the shape and size of synthesized gold nanoparticles. Different pH conditions (acidic, neutral, alkaline) produce different nanoparticle geometries, demonstrating how parameter modification enables shape control beyond spherical forms
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamics by making the synthesis process responsive to controllable environmental variables. The system transitions from static spherical nanoparticle formation to dynamic shape control where parameters like pH, temperature, and light exposure can be adjusted in real-time to produce desired nanoparticle geometries, enhancing adaptability
2Ease of manufacture
If in planta synthesis is used, then nanoparticle production occurs within the plant system, but the ability to control size and shape distribution is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains the simplicity of in planta synthesis while improving manufacturing precision through controlled parameter changes. By adjusting pH, temperature, and PAR within the plant growth system, the method achieves uniform nanoparticle size and shape distribution, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention incorporates feedback mechanisms by monitoring growth conditions and nanoparticle synthesis outcomes. The system uses observable parameters like plant growth health and nanoparticle characteristics to optimize synthesis conditions, enabling precise control while maintaining the in planta approach
3Manufacturing precision
If uniform nanoparticle production is achieved, then desirable geometries are obtained, but controlled manipulation of synthesis conditions is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves uniform nanoparticle production through controlled parameter changes in the growth environment. By systematically adjusting pH, temperature, and light conditions, the method produces consistent nanoparticle geometries without requiring complex synthesis equipment, as the plant system itself serves as the synthesis apparatus
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for the engineering of AuNPs with desirable geometries, demonstrating the feasibility of manipulating in planta synthesis to achieve uniform sizes and shapes, enhancing their potential applications.
Implementation Method 1
phytochemical reduction of metal salt (Mx+) into elemental metal (M°)
Implementation Method 2
contacting at least a first part of the plant with a substance comprising at least one gold salt
Implementation Method 3
providing an average photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) to at least second part of the plant
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a plurality of gold nanoparticles in a plant, the method comprising growing the plant hydroponically, contacting at least a first part of the plant with a substance comprising at least one gold salt, providing an average photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) to at least second part of the plant, waiting a period of time sufficient for formation of a plurality of gold nanoparticles in at least a portion of the plant, thereby manufacturing the plurality of gold nanoparticles in the plant. Disclosed also are, inter alia, a plurality of gold nanoparticles manufactured by such a method; an article of manufacture comprising a plurality of gold nanoparticles manufactured by such a method; and a plurality of triangular gold nanoparticles manufactured by such a method.