Charge-transfer-induced suppression of galvanic replacement and synthesis of (Au@Ag)@Au double shell nanoparticles for highly uniform, robust and sensitive bioprobes

The synthesis of double shell (Au@Ag)@Au nanoparticles is accomplished through suppression of the galvanic replacement reaction caused by an electron transfer phenomenon. The resulting nanoparticles are monodisperse with a thin and uniform second Au shell. These particles are ultimately expected to lead to sensitive probes for biomolecular sensing and diagnostics.