Optical Properties of Rodlike Metallic Nanostructures: Insight from Theory and Experiment

In this work, we combined synthesis of Au nanorods (AuNRs) and Au−Ag core−shell nanorod-like structures, of narrow size distribution in all dimensions and for a broad range of aspect ratios, with computational prediction of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPRs), in order to gain a better understanding of the optical response. Self-assembled AuNRs were also synthesized and characterized experimentally and theoretically. In addition, an understanding of the growth of Au−Ag core−shell nanorod-like structures for varying geometries, dielectric environments, and compositions was obtained. Controlled and precise synthesis, even for AuNRs with large aspect ratios, for Au−Ag core−shell nanostructures and AuNR pairs, enabled validation of the computational results, and development of structure−property relationships. These will, in turn, assist in the experimental characterization of AuNRs and related core−shell nanostructures.