Metal/semiconductor interfaces in nanoscale objects: synthesis, emerging properties and applications of hybrid nanostructures

Hybrid nanostructures, composed of multi-component crystals of various shapes, sizes and compositions are much sought-after functional materials. Pairing the ability to tune each material separately and controllably combine two (or more) domains with defined spatial orientation results in new properties. In this review, we discuss the various synthetic mechanisms for the formation of hybrid nanostructures of various complexities containing at least one metal/semiconductor interface, with a focus on colloidal chemistry. Different synthetic approaches, alongside the underlying kinetic and thermodynamic principles are discussed, and future advancement prospects are evaluated. Furthermore, the proved unique properties are reviewed with emphasis on the connection between the synthetic method and the resulting physical, chemical and optical properties with applications in fields such as photocatalysis.

A novel signal self-enhancement photoelectrochemical immunosensor without addition of a sacrificial agent in solution based on Ag2S/CuS/α-Fe2O3 n–p–n heterostructure films

A novel signal self-enhancement photoelectrochemical immuno-sensor has been developed based on the curing of sacrificial agent SO₃²⁻ coated-Au NPs sensitizing Ag₂S/CuS/α-Fe₂O₃ n–p–n hetero-structure films for the first time.