Electrochemical synthesis and properties of gold nanomaterials

Approximately two decades ago, gold catalyst opened up a new view of their properties when they are introduced in the form of nanomaterials, since at that time, many approaches to preparation and use of gold nanoparticles started to be used in many practical applications. Today, the research activity relating to gold nanomaterials is becoming systematic and goes further to make connections between their surface structure, chemical and physical properties, and possible applications. Since electrodeposition is one of the most controllable methods used to prepare nanoparticles, nanowires, and nanoclusters of gold, the present review gives preference on their electrochemical synthesis. The relationship between catalytic activity, size, morphology and stability of gold nanomaterials is discussed in detail. Based on the properties of the prepared gold nanocatalysts, their new applications in chemical, photochemical, and electrochemical reactions have been observed.