Self-organization of Au-CdSe hybrid nanoflowers at different length scales via bi-functional diamine linkers

This work introduces a series of molecular bridging bi-functional linkers to produce laterally self-assembled nanostructures of the Au-CdSe nanoflowers on different length scales ranging from 10 nm to 100 microns. Assembly of Au nanocrystals within amorphous CdSe rods is found in the early stages of the growth of the Au-CdSe nanoflowers. The Au-CdSe nanoflowers are formed through a one-pot low temperature (150 degrees C) process where CdSe clusters are adsorbed on the surface of the Au cores, and they then start to form multiple arms and branches resulting in flower-shaped hybrid nanostructures. More complex assembly at a micron length scale can be achieved by means of bi-functional capping agents with appropriate alkyl chain lengths, such as 1,12-diaminododecane.