Core/Shell Fluorescent Silica Nanoparticles for Chemical Sensing: Towards Single‐Particle Laboratories

A fluorescent chemical sensor based upon a core/shell architecture of silica nanoparticles (see figure) is introduced. By covalent attachment of organic reference dyes within the core and sensor dyes in the outer shell, optimal sensor architectures can be realized. This paves the way for the development of highly functional particles with catalytic or synthetic abilities. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http: //www. wiley-vch. de/contents/jc₂296/2006/z600017ₛ. pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.