Controlling the synthesis and assembly of fluorescent Au/Ag alloy nanoclusters

Self-assembly of water-soluble fluorescent thiolated Au/Ag alloy NCs into 1D nanostructure in water is demonstrated. Fluorescent Au/Ag alloy NCs with high stability were synthesized through galvanic replacement, starting from nonemissive and unstable AgNC precursors. Then a facile ultrasound method was used to induce a thiolate-driven self-assembly process.